As you can probably imagine sixth graders can provide you with plenty of "Guff." So, in addition to already utilizing the scoreboard and independent strategies I introduced the guff counter. I almost cried tears of joy today when I assigned a larger than normal English assignment. One of my student loudly responded with guff. I literally took one step toward the scoreboard when the entire class responded "PLEASE STOP!" Needless to say I smiled ear to ear as my students got right down to work and saved me the hassle of having to discipline the student. POWER TO THE TEACHERS!!

This is my first reading of Whole Brain Teaching. I liked your story about the Guff Counter Tears of Joy. I could just imagine the class rising up and then hunkering down. Cool!