Building Engagement: Strategies to Keep Students on Task [Episode 63]

In the latest episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, host Lisa Hollady sits down with an incredible podcast Engagement is the foundation of effective learning. When students are engaged, they’re more likely to absorb information, stay on task, and develop positive classroom behaviors. But how do we foster this engagement, especially in a special education setting?

Here are a few strategies that have proven to be effective:

1. Use High-Interest Topics
   Tailoring lessons to students' interests can capture their attention and make learning more enjoyable. Find out what excites your students and weave those themes into your teaching.
2. Incorporate Task Boxes
   Task boxes are a fantastic tool for hands-on learning. They provide structured, engaging tasks that can be tailored to different skill levels, keeping students focused and involved.
3. Encourage Movement
   Simple movement activities, like stretching or short physical breaks, can help students release energy and refocus on their work. Integrating movement into lessons can make learning more dynamic.
4. Make Real-World Connections
   Showing students how their learning applies to real life can boost their interest and engagement. Whether it’s math problems based on shopping scenarios or science lessons linked to everyday phenomena, these connections make learning more relevant.

Building engagement in the classroom is about creativity and responsiveness to your students' needs. By implementing these strategies, you can create an environment where students are excited to learn and participate daily.

Episode Highlights:

• High-interest topics: How incorporating student interests can increase engagement.
• Visual schedules and task boxes: Tools to keep students on track and motivated.
• Incorporating movement: Strategies to prevent burnout and maintain focus.
• Sustainable engagement: Tips to reflect and adapt engagement strategies.

Resources Mentioned:

• Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom 
  

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More About Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast:

Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast is your go-to educational podcast dedicated to making your job as a special education teacher easier and more enjoyable. Your host, Lisa Hollady, is a veteran special education teacher with a passion for helping teachers like you make a real difference in the lives of your students.

In your demanding roles, you’re constantly juggling various responsibilities, from differentiated instruction and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to data collection, and, of course, teaching. That’s where task boxes come in.

Task boxes aren’t just teaching tools. They’re the key to unlocking student independence, student engagement, and personalized learning. Through this podcast, you’ll uncover the incredible task box benefits for your special needs students and practical implementation tips that you can take to your classroom.

Tune in each Monday for a new episode that will equip you with essential strategies and motivation to approach your week with confidence and enthusiasm. Topics will include task box activities, social and emotional development, adaptive teaching, inclusive teaching, supporting diverse learners, classroom management, scheduling, visual aids, and more.

If you’re looking for more special education resources and support to increase student independence, check out Lisa's FREE training.