The Five Senses: Immersion in the Classroom

Sometimes, recreating sensory effects can feel like an extra burden on your lesson planning, or too much effort. In which case, research shows that cutting out one or more of our senses allows us to concentrate more on the senses available to us. Ever turned down the car stereo while searching for a parking spot, or closed your eyes when trying hard to remember something? 

This can be a powerful tool in the classroom when there are many distractions, or when it’s easier to obscure senses than target them.  

Close Eyes While Listening: Encourage students to close their eyes while listening to a story or an important explanation. This enhances auditory focus and helps students visualize the narrative in their minds. 

Turn Out the Lights: When watching a video, turn out the lights or close the blinds to minimize visual distractions and enhance the viewing experience. 

Create Silence: Mimic a deserted landscape by creating prolonged, complete silence in the classroom. This exercise can be particularly effective in lessons about space, deserts, or other isolated environments.