As we draw near to the end of EDLD 5301, I have taken some steps towards the implementation of my action research plan. I purchased enough shoe laces for each student I teach to have one supplied for them. I am sure the parents will appreciate not having to purchase a set of shoe strings only to use one of them. I visited Hobby Lobby and picked out a multitude of colored pony beads for students to put on the shoe strings once they have been earned. I am still working on determining what the criteria must be to earn each color. Also, I am still working on figuring out how many beads the students must earn each six weeks in order to earn the prizes. Finally, I am putting together a presentation for students and parents for Meet the Parent Night as well as the first week of school. We spend a solid week on learning procedures on my campus. It will be a great time to fine tune the bead system as we practice the procedures surrounding the beads. I am so looking forward to the beginning of the school year and getting to know my new students. I hope they will respond as well toward my plan as I think they will.
As always, any ideas or suggestions are greatly appreciated! I will be happy to respond to your blogs as well. Everyone was very kind and no suggestions were made for changes this week. Please let me know if you think of something that would be helpful!
I think your ideas about using beads and shoe strings are solid. Students love tangible rewards or systems where they can receive something for positive achievement. It can become a friendly competition between them. I have found that incentives decrease discipline issues, and I am sure you will have success with your endeavors. The only suggestion I have is to make everything totally fair. It would be wise to think through how every student will be rewarded at some point. It is a balance. For instance, my students would always point out if and when they were in the minority that did not get some type of privilege or incentive. It is a crazy game of balancing activities and making sure every student feels appreciated and encouraged. I do not have specific ideas for you, but I suggest making sure it is always a fair scenario.
ReplyDeleteYou area absolutely correct. That is why attendance is going to count in the bead system. Most students will be able to earn attendance beads each week. I also have in mind to have one bead set aside for an entire class award such as getting a compliment in the hall or cafeteria. I definitely want each student to have equal chances of success. I also plan to do one for students who bring back progress reports and report cards signed the very next day. This should help level things out among the students. Thanks for your suggestions and keep them coming, please!
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