Dealing with unfocused students
When I come across a student who is not focusing I try to make sure they catch up to where we are at in the lecture. I may allow it to occur once, but if I see that it is a constant thing that is happening, I would pull the student aside and see what is going on that is making them not pay attention. We all have moments where we think of something that is going on either personally or even just thinking about a grocery store list. It's great for an instructor to have a room full of students who are excited to be there.
Make sure durring lecture you make eye contact with them often. When making a point say things like "isn't that right" and point to them. Don't embarass them but let them know you are aware of them being there.
An unfocused student is someone that may be dealing with personal issues. Yes, pulling them aside and expressing your concern is something that I would do first in order to find out the problem. Once I understand the problem, try to gear the attention back to the lecture and offer my support.
