Started today asking students to write down one way they know when they are focused. Then we wrote down 2-3 things that disrupt our focus.

Processed briefly, then turned to this article.

We then talked through the ideas that emerged from the conversation. Several quotes that got traction:

* monotasking is “something that needs to be practiced.”

* “Almost any experience is improved by paying full attention to it,” Ms. McGonigal said. “Attention is one way your brain decides, ‘Is this interesting? Is this worthwhile? Is this fun?’ ”

* Monotasking can also be as simple as having a conversation. “Practice how you listen to people,” Ms. McGonigal said. “Put down anything that’s in your hands and turn all of your attentional channels to the person who is talking. You should be looking at them, listening to them, and your body should be turned to them. If you want to see a benefit from monotasking, if you want to have any kind of social rapport or influence on someone, that’s the place to start. That’s where you’ll see the biggest payoff.”

I know the kids have spent time thinking about time management. My primary thing is making sure that they’ve begun to consider how they’re using their time and where the breakdowns are occurring. Sometimes people say they don’t have any work to do when they do. Broken record: sometimes people grossly underestimate how much time things will take.

And while all human beings waste time, are they aware of when and how they are wasting time?

First step: Collect all the things that people say about time
Time is money.
It’s about damn time.
The clock is ticking.
Was that really worth you time?
You can do better next time?
I think you should ____ with your time.
Put time aside to do your work.
Once upon a time.
Time waits for no one.
The end of time is near.
You’re wasting my time and energy.
It’s time to fight.
I don’t got time for you.
Time’s up.
Ain’t nobody got time for that.
If you continue to waste time, you won’t get anything done (ascribed to me but I don’t think I say this)
You either waste time or make it?
Be hear on-time.
If you don’t have time for yourself, don’t make if for anyone else undeserving.
To be on-time is to be late.
Time flies.
I lost track of time.
It’s crunch time.
You grow over time.
Work on time management.
When I was a kid,
Timing is everything.
Time is of the essence.
You can’t run from the past.
The clock is ticking.
You think that time revolves around you. –Grandma
Eastern Standard Time.
Time is against you.
Time is an illusion.
Why you always wait for the last minute?
You just starting that? You gonna get it finished?
Time is the only thing you can’t change.

Best thing: “These projects are easy with unlimited time.” –VG

Sitting, watching students take the SATs, and I brainstormed this list of questions I ask myself as I’m thinking about the norms in my room.

(Thanks to “The Sure Thing”)

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