Virtually every child has been in the situation of being called on to stand up and answer the question in class. Since the first days of school, classroom participation has been a dreaded thing for students. The truth is, it does not have to be this way. There are many things you can do to actually make classroom participation something the kids look forward to. This article will explore some ways to increase classroom participation with your students.
The first key to increasing classroom participation is to value it. That is, make sure the students are aware of the fact that it is required. Do not make it seem as though it is a big deal, but make sure that their grade for the school year is tied into this participation. This will help especially with those students who are wonderful pupils, but are shy about joining in. The good student will do what is necessary to get the right grade.
Install and enforce a no tolerance policy against students being picked on for participating. Many students do not participate simply because they know they will be made fun of. The first time and every time should be a trip to the principal’s office for those that make fun. This will eliminate the problem quickly.
Make participation fun and interesting. If you are simply having students stand up and recite the multiplication tables, you are not up to speed with the modern way of teaching. Instead of this, turn the lesson into a game. If the students are having fun, they will participate. Those that do not will eventually join in when they see how much fun the others are having.
Take the time to ask questions of those students that are not joining in. Many times, the reasons a student does not participate has little to do with the things you expect. Talk with them, explain the importance, and then address the situation on a case by case basis. For example, some children may have a speech impediment that keeps them from wanting to speak out in class. This is important to know early in a student’s schooling so that they can learn coping techniques. Once they reach a certain age, it is difficult to overcome such things.
Have them participate in groups when you are having trouble getting a buy in. This is highly effective, as many will participate if they are not singled out. Get them into groups and have them work on a project together.
Offer some incentives for the best classroom participators. This should not be based on anything other than effort. It is the effort you are seeking and not necessarily the most talented. Offer prizes, or individual awards for those that really put in the effort.
All of these things are wonderful ways to increase classroom participation in your students. Teaching does not have to be so challenging that you can not have some fun with it. Lighten things up, laugh a little, and allow your students to bring their personalities to the classroom. If you do, they will be much more ready for college than they otherwise would be.
