Too Much Energy for Talking

I have a class that is primarily boys, maybe I should say practically all boys. Anyone have suggestions on how to keep them from talking less and working more. They seem like a good bunch of kids, just like to talk. I welcome some more interactive ideas. This is an Algebra 2 class late in the day.

A New School Year!!!

It's a new school year and I find myself already so busy. I have been asked to be the acting Math Department Chair. That is great...but...I am also the Senior class sponsor. I am thrilled to have even been thought of for the Chair position, but can I handle the added responsibilities of this position on top of the responsibilities of guiding the seniors and keep up with the demands of grad school?
Well, I can say that I have survived the first week. Books, calculators and supplies have been distributed. I am talking and working with the teachers. Everyone seems to be OK. The seniors have their first class meeting tomorrow so I am trying to get organized so it doesn't take up too much time (since it was scheduled during 1st period, not by my doing). I'm looking forward to keeping these seniors on track and helping plan the special occasions. Homecoming will be the first activity to plan.
As far as grad school, I am taking a class that will hopefully help become more advance and experienced in the whole blogging thing. It is so new to me and seems so time consuming to learn. I hope it gets better as I find more available time

Student Survey - Alg 2 or Stats

Please post your thoughts about your class this school year. Were the teaching methods beneficial to your method of learning? What would you change? What would you keep the same? How would answer the question a future student asks....How was Algebra 2? How was Statistics? Is it hard?