Squid Game: An Unlikely Source of Inspiration for Better Teaching

 "Squid Game" is a South Korean survival drama television series created by Hwang Dong-hyuk. It premiered on Netflix in September 2021 and became a global phenomenon due to its gripping storyline, social commentary, and intense emotional and psychological drama.

The story follows 456 players, all of whom are deeply in debt or facing financial desperation. They are invited to participate in a mysterious competition where they must play a series of traditional Korean children's games. However, there's a deadly twist: losing a game means death. The winner of all the games receives a massive cash prize of ₩45.6 billion (about 38 million USD).

Since this movie features a variety of games, it can inspire teachers in planning engaging classroom activities.

Squid Game, though dark and intense, offers surprising insights that can inspire teachers to reflect on classroom strategies and student motivation. Here are some thought-provoking lessons for educators:

1. The Power of Motivation

In Squid Game, desperate players are willing to endure extreme challenges for a life-changing prize.
Classroom Inspiration:

• Create meaningful goals or incentives for students to keep them motivated.

• Connect lessons to real-life applications to show students why learning matters.

2. Gamification Works

Despite the risks, the game's structure—challenges, clear rules, and progression—keeps players engaged.
Classroom Inspiration:

• Use gamified learning (like points, levels, and rewards) to make lessons more exciting.

• Encourage healthy competition through group challenges, quizzes, or classroom leaderboards.

3. Teamwork and Trust Matter

Some games in Squid Game require cooperation and strategy among teammates.
Classroom Inspiration:

• Foster collaboration through group work, peer teaching, and trust-building activities.

• Teach students that success often comes from supporting others, not just competing.

4. Know Your Students’ Backgrounds

Each player has a story that influences their decisions and behaviors.
Classroom Inspiration:

• Get to know students' personal struggles or challenges.

• Show empathy and build emotional safety in the classroom—learning improves when students feel understood.

5. Fairness is Crucial

Many players rebel when the game feels unfair or rigged.
Classroom Inspiration:

• Maintain clear rules and treat students fairly and consistently.

• Give all students equal chances to participate and succeed.

6. High-Stakes Pressure Can Backfire

Extreme pressure in Squid Game leads to mistakes, fear, and conflict.
Classroom Inspiration:

• Avoid creating a fear-based environment. Instead, promote growth mindset and allow room for failure and feedback.

• Make learning safe, not threatening.

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How to Manage a Noisy Classroom — Without Losing Your Voice or Your Mind

 Let’s be honest: classrooms can get noisy. Really noisy. Whether it’s excited chatter, off-topic whispers, or the chaos after group work, managing noise is one of the biggest daily challenges teachers face.

But here's the good news—you don’t need to raise your voice to gain control. With the right strategies, you can calm the room and create a space where learning (and a little laughter) happens peacefully.

1. Set Clear Expectations Early

Don’t wait for chaos. From day one, talk about what “quiet” means in your classroom. Use simple, specific examples like:

• “Voice level 0 during reading time.”

• “Only one person talks at a time during discussions.”

• “Whispers only during group work.”

Consider creating a noise-level chart that students can refer to, so expectations are always visible.

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2. Use Non-Verbal Signals

Instead of shouting over the noise, train your students to respond to signals. Try these:

• Raise your hand = stop, look, and listen

• Clap a rhythm, students repeat it back

• A bell, chime, or soft sound to grab attention

It might take a few tries, but once they learn the pattern, it works like magic.

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3. Make Transitions Smoother

Most noise starts during transitions between tasks. Keep those transitions quick and clear:

• Use a timer and give countdowns: “You have 30 seconds to wrap up.”

• Give specific instructions before moving on: “When I say go, you will quietly put away your books and return to your seat.”

The smoother your transitions, the less chance noise will sneak in.

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4. Praise What You Want to See

Instead of always correcting noisy behavior, spotlight the quiet students:

• “I love how Sarah is sitting quietly and ready.”

• “Table 3 is doing a great job working together without shouting.”

Positive reinforcement encourages others to follow along—especially when it comes with a small reward or classroom point system.

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5. Build in Brain Breaks

Sometimes students are noisy because they need to release energy. Build short brain breaks into your lesson:

• Quick stretches or movements

• 1-minute mindfulness or deep breathing

• Short “stand-and-share” activities

Letting students talk, move, or laugh (on your terms) often helps them settle down afterward.

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6. Reflect and Involve Students

If your class has been especially loud, take a few minutes to reflect with them:

• “How do you feel when the classroom is noisy?”

• “What can we do differently next time?”

Let students help solve the problem. This gives them ownership and accountability.

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7. Stay Calm and Consistent

Above all, stay calm. Students feed off your energy. If you get flustered, it can escalate the situation. Stick to your system, and follow through with consequences (or rewards) consistently.

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How to Maintain Students' Focus During Class

Keeping students focused during class can be one of the most challenging aspects of teaching. With the constant distractions of technology, personal thoughts, and even daydreaming, teachers need effective strategies to help students stay engaged and attentive. Whether you’re teaching young children or teenagers, here are practical tips to maintain students' focus and enhance classroom learning.

1. Start with a Strong Opening

The first few minutes of class are crucial. Begin with an attention-grabbing question, a surprising fact, or a short video to hook your students’ interest. A compelling start signals that something important and exciting is about to happen.

2. Set Clear Objectives

Let students know what they’ll learn and why it matters. When students understand the purpose of a lesson, they are more likely to stay mentally invested. Use simple language to outline goals and what they’re expected to achieve by the end.

3. Incorporate Active Learning

Long lectures can cause students to tune out. Instead, involve them in activities such as:

• Group discussions

• Pair work

• Hands-on tasks

• Role-playing

• Problem-solving exercises

Active participation helps students process information more effectively and keeps them engaged.

4. Break Up the Lesson

Attention spans can fade quickly, especially for younger learners. Break lessons into shorter segments with transitions, mini-breaks, or quick stretching exercises. This mental reset helps students return to the lesson refreshed.

5. Use Visual Aids and Multimedia

Visual content like charts, infographics, and videos can make abstract ideas easier to understand. For tech-savvy classrooms, smart boards, slides, or apps can keep the lesson dynamic and interactive.

6. Vary Your Teaching Methods

Different students learn in different ways. Rotate between different methods such as storytelling, demonstrations, group work, and quizzes. This variety keeps students curious and attentive, reducing boredom.

7. Encourage Student Participation

Ask open-ended questions and invite students to share opinions or experiences. Giving students a voice in the lesson makes them feel valued and more involved.

8. Establish a Positive Learning Environment

A safe and respectful classroom environment encourages focus. Build relationships with your students, show empathy, and recognize their efforts. When students feel emotionally supported, they are more likely to stay focused.

9. Manage Classroom Behavior Effectively

Address disruptions calmly and consistently. Use non-verbal signals, positive reinforcement, and clear rules to maintain order without embarrassing or isolating students.

10. Give Meaningful Feedback

Regular feedback helps students understand their progress and areas for improvement. Praise their efforts and guide them constructively. Motivation often follows recognition.

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