Plan for active engagement during the opening and closing minutes of the class
During opening minutes activate knowledge for an upcoming lesson, recall or practice something previously taught, or record objectives for the class in their notes and during closing minutes by summarizing and reflecting on what they have learned in class that day, answering a question related to the day’s objective. Or use the closing minutes to give assignments slowly and carefully, to pose challenging dilemmas for students to ponder (end without closure), or to get personal involvement or commitments from stu- dents on controversial issues or on contracts. The main point is to use them, not lose them, by giving sharp focus and purpose to the beginning and ending minutes.