Sign Language Classroom Signals
This tool is an effective way for students to come and go from the classroom without it being a distraction. The signs are a quick and easy way to get student opinions on “yes” or “no” questions.
Teacher Directed
Early Finisher Options
Teachers can use light-up buttons to stick on the wall/whiteboard and have options next to each button. The teacher will then light up the options that they allow students to do once their work is finished. This allows the students to visually see their options without having to ask the teacher. To make it more student-directed/collaborative teachers can ask students prior in the day what they want the options to be.
Mood Octopus
This tool is a silent way to convey to students that they aren’t following expectations. Simply flip Ollie the octopus from happy to sad when students are not being kind, following classroom agreements, and being safe. Once students correct their behavior, flip Ollie back to happy.
“Flat Tire”
When the teacher or student says “Flat Tire” everyone says shhhhhhh and listens to whoever prompted the flat tire. This is a quick verbal interaction that is a fast and easy way to get students and everyone’s attention in the classroom.
Private Table
This tool is used when a student needs to be able to still be in class but does better when they can only see the teacher. It is helpful because it allows the student to feel like they are at their own table group but if need be, they can see will work with a group.
Check-Ins
Checking in with your students consistently after introducing a lesson to them can be extremely helpful in keeping students on track, accountable, and engaged. Students may be distracted or zoned out but by seeing where everyone is at and asking people to give examples, other students are forced to snap back into their learning.
Life Skills Brag Bracelets
Teachers give their students paper bracelets that have statements about the life skills in our classrooms. This encourages students to have positive behaviors in the classroom to get a bracelet to wear around school, and take home.
Coats in the Closet
This procedure is a system to help reduce traffic jams in the closest, especially during the winter months when students have lots of snow gear. Students come in from outside and first go to their desks. At their desks, they take off their coats and any snow gear. Then they go to the closest to put up their things.
Group Points/Compliments
When you notice groups of students staying on task or not you can add or remove points. If they reach a certain amount they get a small celebration reward.
“I’m so proud of you” stamp
“I’m so proud of you” stamp is a tool that can be used during the supportive phase to actively encourage student’s efforts and participation. One awesome way to do this is by customizing the stamp to say the teachers name, i.e; “Mrs. K is so proud of you!”
