I came across this idea in Family Fun magazine and I decided to try it this year with my students.

I created a Native American Talking Stick. I used a dowel and wrapped different colored suede laces around it. I attached rabbit fur, feathers, and beads. I printed out some info on the talking stick from the internet.

Here's how it works: Students sit in a circle. The talking stick is passed around. You are only allowed to talk if you are holding the stick. Everyone else must remain silent and respectful.

I plan on explaining the origin and meaning of the talking stick.

I thought that maybe by using this mystical, magical tool from the Native peoples, my students would learn how to be better listeners.

If someone has a question/ response to the speaker, they hold up an Answering Feather.

I'll let you know how this works out.

Any other tricks of the trade for getting students to behave?