Progress Through Praise!

Progress Through Praise!

"Johnny, you missed 4 on your spelling test."

"Susie, you weren't facing forward during the fire drill."

These statements are very common in the classroom, and while they are not horrible things to say to students, they are not the most positive either.  Let's rephrase them for fun.

"Johnny, you got 6 correct on your spelling test."

"I noticed that most of you were facing forward during the fire drill.  I definitely noticed."

It seems minor, but taking the negative connotation away, acknowledges what the student(s) did well, and motivates them to keep up the good work, because they're good work is noticed.  By not directing the forward facing issue to 'Susie', the other students are acknowledged for a job well done, and students, such as 'Susie', know in their mind that they weren't included in the positive statement.  She, along with others, will naturally work toward acknowledgement.

Let's think... The "class clowns" or "troublemakers" generally get much attention from the teacher because s/he needs to address their behavior and correct it.  This takes time away from the other students, and gives the aforementioned that attention that they are seeking. So, let's take that attention away from these students and ignore their behaviors, or address them outside of whole group time.  Of course, this can be easier said than done, especially with various behavior issues, however, giving praise to students will lead to more progress because they want to please their teacher and be recognized for their hard work!  

** What about that boy who is in the 3rd grade, but is still reading at a 1st grade level?
Praise him! Don't look at how far he still has to go, but rather how far he has come. Keep him motivated and make sure he knows that you believe in him.  Highlight his strengths.  Chart his successes.  

Let's help our students and children progress through praise and feel confident and proud, rather than embarrassed and defeated. 

This picture was taken recently of the beautiful display of art that was created by my daughter's 1st grade class.  A few moms and I worked many hours to create this wall and display the hard work of the students for the school's annual Art Show.

I smile as I relive that evening and their faces as they showed off their masterpieces to their family and friends.  How proud they must have felt!