Setting the Class Context Through Guided Meditation & Silence
In the craziness of our lives at school, how do we help students set the context by encouraging them to focus and be engaged in the class that is about to begin? One method is two minutes of guided meditation/silence at the start of class. Here’s how it typically goes . . . feel free to adapt the script to your own circumstances. As we settle into our seats, close your computers. Take everything off your work space. (turn off lights, play music, instrumental – optional) Pause for a moment. You can even close your eyes and put your head on your desk, if that helps . . . but try not to doze off. Instead, pay close attention to your breathing right in this moment. (pause) It is 10:25 AM. We are in English class, having just come from activity period, and before that, another block class. During these two minutes before we begin class, try to empty your head & clear your mind . . . (pause) Perhaps during activity period you engaged in intramurals or at a club meeting. Maybe you played games on your computer in the Innovation Center, or checked messages on your phone. Maybe you caught up with some homework, reviewed for an upcoming test, or chatted with a friend or teacher. Perhaps you were in the chapel. Maybe during your time you read a novel or even slept. (pause) Perhaps during your last class you were participative and engaged in discussion or an activity. Maybe you felt frustrated, happy, or anxious. Whatever your feelings, leave them and those experiences, if you are remembering them right now. (pause) Try, in this moment right now, to clear your mind . . . (longer pause) As you prepare for this English class, how you want to be? (pause) Will you be preoccupied? Or will you be engaged and on-task today during class? (pause) Decide now. (pause) As we end this time of quiet and as we prepare for class . . . as you open your eyes, please get out your book, your notebook (and open it to a new page), and a pen. Let’s begin . . .
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Pete MussoAssistant Principal, Curriculum & Instruction Archives
May 2022
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