email this idea to a friend Export to pdf Export to doc

Name of Activity:

End of Class Points

Purpose of Activity:

To encourage and reward appropriate behavior and work habits

Prerequisites:

When our school was created 9 years ago, our students created 4 school rules which are used and posted around the school. The "specials" teachers use these rules to reward appropriate behavior and work habits.

Suggested Grade Level:

3-5

Materials Needed:

Poster which has each class listed, marker for writing score.

Description of Idea

Our school rules are:
1) Be safe
2) Make good choices
3) Respect ourselves, others, and things
4) Do your best

At the beginning of the school year, each teacher discusses with their classes what each rule looks like in their space. For instance in PE they translate to 1) were kids in control of their bodies and equipment, 2)did we get along (cooperation and sensitivity to others), 3) were we good listeners, and 4) did everyone participate and try their best in "all" activities. At the end of class, when the students are in line, I ask each of these questions. The students vote by raising the appropriate number of fingers: 4 fingers- all kids, 3 fingers- most kids, 2 fingers- about half the kids, and 1 finger- only a couple of the kids. 4 fingers is a perfect score for that question, and 16 points is a perfect score for the class. The line leader gets to write the score on the poster which is located on the wall at the front of the line. Because this is daily routine, it takes only a minute at the end of class. It's a great way to get the class ready to transition back to class and lets the classroom teacher know how class went. The students strive for perfect scores and the scores are self rewarding (no other incentive is required). If we are running short on time, and I want to skip points, the students won't let me- it's that important to them!

Assessment Ideas:

If one day the students receive a low class score, we start the next class with a quick reminder of what area(s) we are working on. The next class almost always improves in that area(s).

Adaptations for Students with Disabilities

This activity is appropriate for children of all abilities. It is especially helpful for students with behavior issues. I remind them of the rule and the points to redirect undesirable behaviors.

Submitted by Carol Baitz who teaches at Thatcher Brook Primary School in Waterbury, VT. Thanks for contributing to PE Central! Posted on PEC: 6/7/2006.
Viewed 50087 times since 5/20/2006.

| More

End of Class Points

Post a Comment:

Let others know how this idea went when you implemented/tried it with your kids. Include any variations, suggested teaching tips, positive comments, etc. so others can benefit from your tips. Please be helpful and positive with all comments. Look below to see all posted comments.

 

Name:
Comments:
 

Previous Comments:

There are currently no comments to display. Be the first to add a comment!



Search for lesson ideas