Pause and scan (hold the space)
Aim (what it achieves)
Use calm silence to reset attention and stop chatter spreading.
When to use
When instructions are being talked over or attention is drifting.
How to use (steps)
Teacher language (examples)
“I’ll wait.” (then silence) “Thank you—now…”
Top tips (makes it work)
Short pauses are powerful; pair with a clear restart line.
Common pitfalls
Filling the silence with warnings; restarting too soon; looking flustered.
SEND/PP considerations
Supports anxious students because the expectation is clear without public conflict.
Useful for these SEND needs
Relevant SEND Needs
Why this strategy helps
- Uses low-arousal redirection to protect dignity.
- Supports regulation and relational safety.
- Clarifies language and participation pathways.
Universal SEND-friendly: Yes
SEND-targeted: No
Tags
Sources
Used in
Common Behaviour Issues (Behaviour Hub)
- Interrupt & Redirect Chatting during teacher talk / instruction
Related strategies
Reset the room (10–20 second whole-class reset)
Stop ‘spread’ of chatter and restore calm without drama.
Attention signal + countdown
Regain whole-class attention quickly and predictably.
Pre-correction (prime expectations before the moment)
Prevent predictable slip-ups by reminding students of the expected behaviour right before a high-risk moment.
Re-state expectation once (no multiple warnings)
Reduce ‘nagging’ cycles and make directions meaningful.
30‑second structured partner reset (re-engage without confrontation)
Shifts a drifting or chatty class back to learning by giving talk a short, controlled purpose and a clear stop.
Proximity and presence
Stop low-level disruption without breaking teaching flow.