School isn’t always the most captivating thing, that’s no secret. In order to combat the lack of attention and desire to learn, teachers have found ways to raise enthusiasm in the classroom.

“I think that different methods work better or worse for different educators,” said Mr. Kirschmann, math teacher. “For me, I’m not very good at designing games for students. I know that they work well and can be enjoyable when done right, but I am just not a ‘games’ person.”

Students may find it challenging to maintain focus in class, especially when it’s a subject they aren’t completely interested in, which is why it’s so important for teachers to use enthusiasm and keep their lessons entertaining.

“Students benefit from an enthusiastic teacher more than one who is strictly down to business,” said Tien Ha, senior.

Another popular tactic teachers use to keep students engaged in the lesson is to utilize humor that is relevant to the subject. Something that makes students laugh is more likely to leave a lasting impression on them, which will aid in retaining the information.

“I hit myself in the head a lot. I think I’m the only one who does that,” said Kirschmann. “As long as work is getting done and we are accomplishing our objectives, I have no problem having some fun.”

All of this is not to mention that most students have a full schedule, meaning that they have to power through seven subjects a day. It’s not easy remembering all of the information smashed into our brains daily, so making learning fun is almost vital to a student’s success.

“If teachers don’t include anything other than what’s in the curriculum, their students are going to be bored out of their minds and learn nothing,” said Angelina Vernola, junior.

Teaching also goes beyond the smartboard. If a teacher develops a relationship with their students, they will care more to retain the information and be more open to asking questions, so lessons will be more effective.

“I believe having a connection with the students is a key to keeping the students engaged,” said Ha. “It allows for students to feel comfortable with them, both as a person and as a teacher.”

Mrs. Montgomery, a foreign language teacher, is met with many advantages in her styles of teaching. She is able to use songs, games, and more means of memorization that make teaching fun.

“I find the students are most receptive to the idea of personalized teaching and learning such that they have something personal and practical to attach to it, thus creating relevancy and meaning,” said Mrs. Montgomery.