The first year I taught was in a HS. Had only 9th graders, which are not
always much better than middle schoolers. I had a particularly difficult
8th period class.
I found that painting with watercolors (the inexpensive pan style) really
quieted them down. You can demo a few techniques, then have them draw some
type of abstract design, perhaps curves ad straight lines (Kandinsky). Or
even use plastic lids of containers, and have them overlap many circles.
Let them practice for a while, then have them paint their designs. I was
amazed at how some of these really difficult boys sat and painted!