Teaching English Updated

I've noticed a trend at school. More and more kids are bringing their phones to class. Most schools are offering free wireless internet, and many students are taking advantage by surfing the net, checking e-mail, watching videos or playing on-line games in the classroom. It's a trend which will only get worse when the government starts handing out free 'Pads.' . With only weeks left in the semester, most students have 'misplaced' their text books. Time to come up with new innovative teaching techniques to regain the students attention. . A couple of sayings come to mind: "Fight fire with fire," "If you can't beat them, join them." This video is a prime example.  I had everyone's attention. After the video ended I replayed it and froze it at intervals to discuss event's and objects on the screen. The discussion went from smell, cookie jar, refrigerator, broom, sweeping, to chainsaw and parachuting. Surprisingly most of the class were taking notes. Of course, the fact that I had a supply of cookies on my desk also helped keep their interest.  Class ended with everyone snacking.