But You Only Waited 1.873 Seconds!

It's a common problem for teachers who are using questions in lessons, and trying to promote dialogue: not giving enough time for someone to answer. You ask the question, and then...the silence and lack of response hangs there...and your brain is screaming, your emotions are churning...and you go on without waiting for them to answer.

The fact is, you waited about 2.249 seconds.

I know it felt like an eternity. I know it was long enough to hear inner voices shouting "What's wrong with them!?" and "I must have asked a horrible question!" and "This is taking for...ev...er!"

So you ask another question. And you wait about 1.873 seconds. Your brain is watching this scene is super slow-motion replay.

Here's a tip to help you wait a more reasonable time for a response, and best of all, have a better mindset:

Sing a line from the hymn, "Amazing Grace" in your head. (Not out loud, please!) That's it. Just sing, "Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me."

That will take about 4 to 5 seconds. And your mindset is more focused on good things, rather than thoughts of the class spinning out of control.

You'll need to train yourself to do this, because it is a new habit. The payoff is terrific: a calm pause after you ask the question will give people time to think and respond. And they'll sense your calmness, rather than anxiousness.

Do you think this tip will help?

"Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me."