A large percentage of communication is influenced by nonverbal communication, body language. It is relatively easy and quick to use, and is generally unobtrusive.
Things to consider:
Move close to a student who is off task or misbehaving.
Smile and make eye-contact with students. These are powerful, positive signals that help students feel welcome and noticed.
Make discrete head nodding movements and hand signals that you are pleased with how a student is working and/or behaving.
Non-verbal communication such as gestures, hand signals and other forms of body ‘language’ to signal that the behaviour is not acceptable:
a finger to the lips to signal ‘no talking’ or ‘quiet’
a shake of the head
a frown or a stern stare
More intrusive strategies:
extended pause - the teacher simply stops talking, looks in the direction of the offending student and waits until the student has stopped the inappropriate behaviour.
clap - used most often when a number of children are involved or when the whole class needs a reminder e.g. to reduce the noise level or to pay attention and listen.
Avoid:
Standing too close to a student. This can be intimidating and can cue hostility.
Holding eye contact, as it can become a ‘stare-down’ challenge.
Using overly assertive body language that conveys that you are waiting for compliance. Instead, give your direction, walk away, allow ‘take up’ time, get on with teaching and scan back to check compliance.
Showing irritation through foot tapping, pointed or exaggerated frowning, or pursing lips. If something is irritating and this needs to be expressed, say so and repeat the direction or behaviour you want to see.
Reference links.