Capturing Their Attention

Holding the attention of 360 ninth-graders at 2 o'clock in the afternoon isn't always an easy task. They've been at school for the better part of 7 hours, they're tired, and they're anxious to go home. And, let's face it, most of their attention spans couldn't bridge a small puddle.

But should you find yourself on a stage in front of said 360 ninth-graders and begin to wonder if they're paying attention, this is all you have to do to find out: mispronounce the name of their town.

I guarantee you all 360 of them will quickly -- and gleefully -- correct you. Every last one of them. And don't look to a guidance counselor or teacher for consolation, as their laughter will only serve to make this awkward moment that much more, well, awkward.