Help a routine become familiar
Teach the routine first. Give students a chance to practice it, then look for a behavior they can repeat the next time.
- A calm transition
- Set a short visual timer for packing away. Thank the class when materials are returned and the next book is ready.
- A ready-to-learn start
- Name the first action you see, such as opening a notebook and starting the warm-up. Invite that student to choose the order of two later activities.
Notice strategies during learning
Offer several ways to earn recognition. Students can demonstrate persistence, collaboration or careful work through actions that fit their needs.
- Trying a new approach
- When a student corrects a mistake, recognize the strategy they changed. Invite them to record what worked on a sticky note or in a learning journal.
- Sharing a useful explanation
- Give a teamwork point after a student asks their partner to explain their thinking. Ask both partners to name one idea they learned.
Close the lesson together
Review who had chances to take part. Vary the ways you recognize progress so students who contribute quietly have visible opportunities too.
- A class milestone
- Set a shared practice goal, such as making the last five minutes useful. Let students choose a short read-aloud or drawing break when the routine is established.
- A private progress note
- Write one sentence about a specific improvement and one next step. Give it privately so the student can ask questions or suggest a goal.
Frequently asked questions
How many reward reasons should I start with?
Choose two or three actions you can describe in a sentence. Add new reasons as your routines change.
Should students see one another’s points?
Choose what to share based on your class. A group celebration can be public, while personal feedback can stay between the teacher and student.