Useful Tools and Techniques: Vocabulary, A Hobby of Mine

To help the children remember vocabulary words and improve certain behaviours, I use task cards and points (stars). Every Monday, tasks are reallocated and the children glue a card with their name on it next to the task selected. As the days go by, they can put a star on their card if they do a good job on their assigned task, remember a smart vocabulary word or help a friend. There are all kinds of opportunities to earn a point (star). At the end of the week, at noon on Friday, we know who has the most stars and who will receive the trophy that week. As we get further into the year and the children really begin to understand the system, I add a personal goal to each card. For example: being good at the table - not talking with one's mouth full - staying in line, etc.

This way of doing things really teaches children to listen and follow instructions.

N.B.: In addition to the trophy, a star certificate is posted for all to see on the bulletin board for parents.