What to do when praise doesn't work

What to do when praise doesn't work

In this two minute video, we explain what to do when praise doesn’t work.

Fact: all praise is not created equal!

Using ‘good boy’ or a ‘well done’ just won’t cut it for many pupils.

That sort of bland, generic praise simply goes in one ear and out the other. Some pupils won’t even realise that you are talking to THEM.

What’s needed instead is meaningful recognition. Something that makes a difference to the child you are speaking to. And as an added bonus, lets everyone in earshot know what your expectations are.

A great way to do this is to use the following sequence:

  • name, pause, recognition, thank you.

    So, you could say:. ‘Mason, you are working quietly, thank you.’

Now Mason realises that students get noticed for doing the right thing in this class AND everyone around Mason knows what you want to see.

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