The Big 8™ are 8 skill sets, each set containing related skills and strategies that every teacher needs to hone and to master in order to actively engage their students in learning. With trained eyes, every observer can spot each of The Big 8™ and its elements. With intent and focus, every practitioner can master each of The Big 8™.

for
MAXIMIZING STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
MAXIMIZING STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
THE BIG 8 | Instructional Focus | The Strategies (in brief) |
1 Expectations |
Expect Results in Real Time | Make sure students understand and follow your directions |
Transition Smoothly | Guide students to make efficient physical and mental transitions from one activity to another. | |
Develop Good Habits | Turn procedures and expected behaviors into habits. | |
2 Time Management |
Manage Students’ Time | Define time requirements (start times, end times) and develop time awareness through practice. |
3 Cueing |
Give Positive Reminders | Support expectations with positive statements. |
4 Attention |
Prompt for Attention | Use verbal prompts and physical stance to get students’ attention for upcoming instruction or direction. |
5 Proximity |
Use Stance and Movement | Move strategically to maximize proximity including eye-contact with students. |
6 Signals |
Encourage Student Signals | Give students ways to signal that they are ready, finished, or need help. |
7 Voice |
Say It Right | Raise and lower your voice to deliver information with interest. Always choose clear and appropriate language. |
8 Tasking |
Ask and Direct | Shape questions and devise activities to engage students directly in responding. |