This year in second grade, the students will be learning what it is like for mom and dad to have to work hard to earn money, and the value of that money. This is the main goal of my classroom management program that I am developing. The students will also be involved in developing this program. For example, the students will decide what classroom rules we should have and the "cost" for not obeying one of these rules. Just like mom and dad, if they are caught disobeying the speed limit they must pay a fine. We also will be having a contest in the designing of the money our class will use. Stay tuned for our winners!
The students will earn money for work that is well done and for following class rules. Conversely, they will have to pay a fine for incomplete work, missed homework assignments, and for breaking a class rule. What will the children do with the money they earn? The same as mom and dad - Spend it!
I have discovered that what children want most is special prizes. Those students who have all their work completed and have earned enough money will be able to buy various prizes. We will have an auction on the last Friday of every month. This will be a good way to get rid of some of the "junk" that can be someone else's treasure. For example, old coloring books that still have pages to color, old playing cards, posters, books, small toys, etc. We will be collecting things all month that can be auctioned at the end. Some things may not even sell until the next month. It will all depend on how hard the children choose to work.
I am looking forward to implementing this program and I think the children will enjoy it too. I have high hopes that this will encourage all the children to really try to do their best.
If you have any questions,comments, or concerns, please feel free to notify me. I am always open to any suggestions that will benefit our classroom.