For years the typical teaching curriculum has been "teach the concept, practice a few days or a week, then move on. This approach has led many, or maybe even most, of the students to get the concept.....at least for the time being. But, what about days, weeks, or months later. Do most still remember it? Unfortunately, in many cases, the answer is, "No." But, by revisiting that concept on a regular basis, AND bringing passion (interest, challenge, and fun) into the learning, our students will remember! Wow! Now watch the end-of-the year test scores soar, all because they know their stuff, not because they got some last minute prepping.
The thing is, kids really do love learning. They thrive on a little challenge when they know they can be a winner, just like in the games they love to play. Want to create passionate learners? Then, revisit concepts to keep them confident in what they know, and make the learning work just like a game:
- Introduce the "object" of the game (concepts to be learned). Model and practice together to ensure understanding, so the learner feels confident in his ability to play the "game" well.
- Make the "game" (the lesson and/or practice) a challenging and engaging activity. Make the case for, "Get me interested" by letting the learner apply what he has learned to something interesting and meaningful.
- Reward the "game player" through becoming a winner (having learned and remembered the concepts) and being successful in showing what he knows.
- Repeat the "game" with a new thing (concept) that builds on what has already been learned. Repeat, repeat, repeat........build, build, build..........repeat, repeat, repeat.......... This keeps the learner confident and ready to conquer the next step or level of the game.
So now, he's at a better place to ask the right questions and give the right answers. He becomes confident and excited in his learning ability. He welcomes the new topics and concepts (the new challenges) with eagerness because he knows he's "winning the game." And that, my friend, is awesome! He has become a passionate learner!
I have just released my newest year-long Common Core Morning Work Bundle (1st grade) that is modeled after the "game approach" for creating passionate learners. The kids love, love, love it because they have fun with the daily challenge just as they would in a game, and they feel like successful winners when they remember so much they've learned. You are welcome to try this FREE week-long sample to help get your kids in a morning routine:
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Also available is a year-long 2nd Grade Common Core Morning Work Bundle and this FREE week-long sample for 2nd grade that are modeled after the "game approach" as well.
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