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

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.