Interactive Modeling: Walking in Line

1. Describe a positive behavior you will model

“When we walk in line, it’s important for us to get where we’re going safely and quietly, so other people in our school can stay focused on what they’re doing. I’m going to show you what it looks like to walk in line. Watch and see what you notice.”

2. Model the behavior

Designate a student to pretend to be in line in front of you. Walk in line around the room behind this student. Keep a steady pace, maintaining a close but not-too-close distance between you and the student. Use a quiet voice to point out something you see as you walk. After you’ve gone once around the room, have the student return to his or her spot as you return to your teaching post.

3. Ask students what they noticed

“What did you notice about how I walked in line?” (If necessary, follow up with questions such as “What did you notice about the distance between Kira and me?” to prompt students to list important elements: keeping appropriate distance, keeping up the pace, hands and feet to yourself, facing forward, quiet voice, etc.)

4. Ask students to model the same behavior

“Who can show us how to walk in line the same way I did?”

5. Ask students what they noticed

“How did Elizabeth and Briana show us safe and quiet walking in line?” The children name specific positive behaviors they noticed.

6. Have the class practice

“Now we’re all going to practice walking in line. I’ll be watching to see how you do all the things we just discussed.”

7. Provide feedback

“Wow, you’ve got it! You all kept up with each other at a good pace, stayed close but not too close to each other, and stayed silent or used quiet voices. We’re ready to walk outside!”

Discover other ways you can use Interactive Modeling with Interactive Modeling: A Powerful Tool for Teaching Children.