Re · di · rect - 1. To direct again; 2. To change the direction or focus of

The power of redirection for a teacher is similar to that of a magician using misdirection with an audience. Both seek to maintain focus in one direction in order to keep it from another. While the magician uses techniques to keep the audience's focus on hand movements and away from the secret tricks of the trade, the teacher uses techniques to turn student attention away from behavior that is not acceptable and focused instead on actions that are. But what is required to perform this bit of magic in the classroom?

Powers of Observation
The first element to performing the art of redirection is the power of observation. If the teacher is not aware of the behavior occurring in the classroom, redirection is not possible. Instead, the teacher will react to deeds of misbehavior after the fact. Observation must take place with both the eyes and ears attuned to students. The trick is learning how to divide a part of your awareness so that while you are teaching a lesson or giving directions, you are also aware of where each student is and what each is doing. This awareness allows you to take action before misbehavior occurs. For example, while you are giving directions to students you see someone texting under the desk. Quietly you meander towards that student, while continuing to give directions, make eye contact and shake your head. This is a silent warning to the student that also serves to redirect attention.

Exercises for building awareness:

Constantly move your eyes around the room as you address students
Walk around and monitor student actions and conversations
Keep your ears open and filter for conversation that is not appropriate
When in a room of adults where several conversations are occurring at the same time, try to keep track of at least two of the conversations as practice.
While talking with another adult, practice being aware of what else is in the room. After leaving, try to name as many objects (or actions that occurred) as you can.

Knowing Your Students
The second element to the art of redirection is knowing your students. You need to be aware of what will and will not work with each individual in the classroom. For some students a stern look and head shake is all that is needed to refocus his or her attention in the right direction. Others require more direct action in focusing attention elsewhere. This might include offering an alternate activity, asking for help with a task, or sending the student on an errand. What will motivate one student to desist from the misbehavior and focus instead on an appropriate task or behavior will not motivate another. You must be aware of the individuality of each student in order to find a new action or task for redirection.

Exercises for getting to know students

Take time to speak to students one-on-one whenever the opportunity
Ask questions
Pay attention to student interests in discussions and class assignments
Listen to conversations between students while in class
Be involved with student activities when possible

Redirection Strategies
Redirection is really a proactive classroom management strategy that allows you to diffuse potential situations before they blow up into major issues. These can range from small acts of inattention to major emotional meltdowns. Below are just a few techniques you can use to redirect student behavior towards more positive pursuits. When you see a student who is inattentive or on the brink of making a poor choice, try one of the following:

Direct eye contact and a head shake, later affirm better behavior with a nod to reinforce the good choice
Call on the student to answer a question or participate in a discussion
Ask for student input in brainstorming ideas and forming solutions
Provide an alternative activity that performs the same function in a way that keeps student attention
Ask the student to help in the classroom in a leadership capacity - "Would you mind helping me..." or "Could I get you to..."
Have student create something unique with materials on hand
Put the student in charge of a specific task (handing out papers, cleaning up, etc)
Ask the student to run an errand for you (sometimes removing the student from the room for a few minutes will help a potentially volatile situation to defuse)
Group redirect - play a game such as telephone or hot potato, sing a song, play quick quiz or jeopardy

Conclusion
With good observation, a solid knowledge of student personalities, and a tool bag full of various redirection strategies, you too can perform magic in your classroom. Getting student attention redirected towards positive actions and attitudes is no mean trick, but through practice and experience you can use this proactive classroom management strategy to your advantage.