Effective Directions

EFFECTIVE DIRECTIONS

The Four-Part Sequence

When giving mobilising directions, there is a particular sequence of phrases that can help teachers, teaching assistants, structure their thoughts and thereby provide an effective organisation of the information for their students. The four parts of the sequence are:

Congruence and Command Mode

Great speakers throughout world history all shared one characteristic- their ability to communicate a single message with power, conviction, and passion. The key is every aspect of the delivery was communicating the same message. Their choice of words, tone of voice, pacing, use of pauses, eye contact, and physical gestures were all focused to describe this effect is congruence. Strive to be congruent when giving directions!

I. “In 10 seconds…” (Place a time frame at the beginning of a mobilising direction…)

II. “When I say go…” (Add a trigger to indicate when the action will begin…)

III. “Stand Up, Hand Up, Pair Up” (Clearly and precisely state the direction, then finally…)

IV. “Go!” (Say the trigger word to initiate action.)