Two weeks ago I discussed student rewards that were not food and many of the options involved a choice of a reward. Such as having a coupon book that student’s can pick which coupon they would like that is relevant to them and their life. The most important reasons that choice is valuable in the classroom is that it allows students to have responsibility and can be the greatest motivator a teacher could ever use.
Choice does not just apply to rewards though, it can also be used with class work. For example, teachers can allow student choice when it comes to a book to read or how to do their end of unit project. However, for choice to work the best there still has to be some parameters included.
If giving choice in regard to books, teachers can limit it to a specific genre or provide three or four options and students can pick from these. If giving choice in regard to a project or other assignment give a clear rubric or set of directions to make sure students meet requirements while still being allowed to show their creative side.
Choice is a vital classroom motivator and allows for students to be excited and passionate about the work that they are completing. This is especially true in middle school and high school classrooms where students are more independent in their work and can take on the extra responsibility of making sure they are following the rubric and directions.
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I totally agree!