Key factors:
How can educators remodel studying into one thing college students wish to do somewhat than must do? That’s the query our group of educators within the Oktibbeha County Faculty District got down to reply once we created One-Two-Three-Learn!, a motivational studying program designed for third graders–however simply adaptable for different grades as nicely. Our objective was easy: encourage lifelong readers via the ability of play and constant encouragement.
Constructing a motivational studying program
Impressed by analysis from Wigfield and Guthrie (2022) and Gambrell and Morrow (2015), we knew that motivation is essential to studying growth. As an alternative of launching a standard studying log, we requested college students what they appreciated most of their free time. Their reply was unanimous: video games.
So, we turned studying right into a sport.
The One-Two-Three-Learn! program encourages college students to learn at the least one e book per week with somebody at house, combining studying with household engagement. Every week, college students full quick e book reviews that embody key story components and private reflections. These reviews earn them motion on the One-Two-Three-Learn! board–a gamified classroom show that visually tracks scholar progress and rewards constant studying.
How this system works
We constructed the board utilizing the aspect of a washer field, spray-painted black and labeled in white chalk. Paper pockets held enjoyable incentives like additional recess, sitting within the trainer’s chair, or the uncommon deal with of writing with a pen. Every scholar had a Popsicle stick title tag that superior alongside the board every Friday primarily based on the variety of accomplished reviews.
A bulletin board studying “Desire a vibrant concept? Learn a de-light-ful e book!” featured a large lightbulb and weekly progress updates, whereas a hallway barometer tracked whole class progress towards a bunch objective–studying 500 books in 5 weeks.
College students have been thrilled. Fridays turned a celebration of studying. The thrill was contagious.
Outcomes that talk volumes
On the finish of 5 weeks, the category surpassed its objective with a whopping 567 books learn. Some college students even “lapped” the board, incomes additional incentives. We wrapped up with a ribbon ceremony and a playground get together to acknowledge everybody’s efforts.
Dad and mom acquired a remaining letter summarizing their baby’s progress and inspiring continued studying at house.
Analysis by Guthrie and Klauda (2014) helps the concept excessive expectations, paired with motivational methods, can increase scholar achievement. Moreover, Ryan and Deci (2020) emphasize that parental involvement enhances motivation–one thing our program actively nurtured via common house communication.
Why it really works
One-Two-Three-Learn! blends extrinsic rewards with intrinsic motivation. It offers
speedy suggestions and fosters a way of group and achievement, all whereas giving college students autonomy of their studying decisions. These are essential components in any motivational studying program.
And maybe most significantly, it’s enjoyable.
Ultimate ideas
Studying ought to by no means really feel like a chore. With One-Two-Three-Learn!, it doesn’t. This
motivational studying program impressed real pleasure, strengthened studying habits, and introduced households and lecture rooms collectively in a celebration of literacy. Even after this system ended, many college students saved studying independently–a long-lasting consequence any educator would have a good time.
If you happen to’re trying to improve engagement in your individual classroom, take into account making studying a sport. You simply would possibly discover that the trail to literacy success is so simple as One-Two-ThreeRead!.
