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      How to use Focus Mode

      Learn how to minimize distractions during in-class assessments.

      When you want to keep students focused on their Derivita assignment during class, use Derivita's built-in Focus Mode. It puts students into full screen mode and prevents them from looking at other assignments or tabs.

      Focus Mode is useful for keeping tests distraction-free, but it doesn't provide a secure lockdown environment like Proctorio, so we recommend using it only in class, when teachers can supervise.

      It doesn't require any installation, and it's compatible with the content filtering and classroom management software you already use, like Blocksi and LanSchool.

      How to turn on Focus Mode

      Please note:

      • Focus Mode may not work as intended on iPads. If students have trouble, it may help to open Derivita in Safari, rather than the Canvas app
      • Focus Mode doesn't work with questions that require students to upload an image.
        Instead, we recommend turning on Show Work, so students can upload images at the end of the assignment.
        Learn more: How do I have students show their work?
      • If an assessment uses a question containing a link to Desmos, the student will not be able to open the calculator within a separate tab with Focus Mode turned on. Instead, utilize the TI Calculator option for quizzes and exams. 
      1. Open the Derivita assignment and click the pencil icon to open the assignment settings
      2. Scroll down to Focus Controls and choose Focus Mode
      3. Turn on Restrict Access, if you'd like to keep students from starting or re-starting the assignment until you admit them
        Learn more here: Exam Lobby | Derivita Support Center
      4. On a quiz or exam, you may choose a calculator for students to use
      5. Click Save

      Focus Mode for students

      1. Students will navigate to their Derivita assessment
      2. They'll then see a prompt to enter Focus Mode:Screenshot 2025-06-04 11.35.35
      3. An orange border will be shown on the students' screens while in Focus Mode:Screenshot 2025-06-04 11.38.48
      4. If you chose a calculator, they can click "Calculator" in the top right to open it.
      5. If a student tries to visit another page or switch windows, they'll be removed from Focus Mode. They'll need to refresh the page to re-enter Focus Mode.focus4

      IMPORTANT REMINDER

      Focus Mode is intended for in-class assessments where the teacher can supervise students. Focus Mode is like closing the classroom door to minimize distractions and does not replace educator supervision. For more advanced proctoring needs, Proctorio remains an option.