Hi Amy: Sometimes students just arn't interested in paying attention or are preoccupied with other thoughts not involved with class. Even teachers feel this way sometimes, don't you think? I believe when the environment is surrounded by interesting lessons or activities, enthusiastic teachers, and engaging course work that involves the students in the learning process, the level of participation and engagement is going to be higher. Sometimes, just a momentary change of pace, followed by a return to the lesson is all that is needed to refocus the class or individual students. Regards, Barry