It's time for Joanne's Sparking Student Motivation over at Head over Heels for Teaching.
I am middle school, so please remember that.
It's hard to motivate pre-teens with hormones! They want candy and not to have to work.
Since I already shared candy once, I am sharing a new grading policy I am going to try.
RUBRICS
Rubrics aren't new obviously, but I haven't used many. I use them when I give projects because students know exactly what they need to do to get the grade they want. That doesn't always mean they do it or do their best, but they want to pass. Grades do motivate middle school kids. (some of them)
It's harder in 6th because there's no athletics for them. 7th and 8th graders care more because no pass, no play.
My plan is to be up front for expectations and then give grades that way.
I am going to use one for their Math Notebook. I have seen lots of rubrics out in the blog world. I made one to meet my needs. Honestly, it is subject to change. But, its a start.
If you can use it, great. Get it here FREE!
In a perfect world, my students will know the expectations and see this as an "easy A". It will be a daily grade each six weeks. I am hoping this motivates them to care more about their math notebook.
Got some motivating strategies to share? Link up!
And I know there's a lot of giveaways going on right now, don't miss out!
And All Things Upper Elementary started one today as well!
And this giveaway is still going on. Prizes everyday!!!
I like using rubrics. Although it's a bit more work, it really think it helps guide students to a better product. :) Great post. :)
ReplyDelete~Brandee
Creating Lifelong Learners
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I also like to use rubrics. It helps the students know in a very clear cut way what is required. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteHunter's Tales from Teaching
I started using rubrics more this year because our district was going to standards based grading and then changed it back to percentage grading after one nine weeks! (go figure) Anyway, I agree with you that guidelines and expectations are clear when they have it all laid out in front of them. After using several rubrics, I started having my students make them for different assignments-that's when I saw big changes in my students' performance! It was definitely motivating to them! I also like that you said your rubric was subject to change-reflecting teaching-you're so good! :O)
ReplyDeleteThanks for linking up and sharing friend!
Joanne
Head Over Heels For Teaching
As I started reading your post, I found myself smiling because I know just what you mean about middle schoolers! I taught 6th for eight years:) I started having my students last year help me design the requirements for rubrics last year and want to try that again this year. It really was motivating! Thank you for sharing yours!
ReplyDelete~Holly
Fourth Grade Flipper