Classroom Incentives

Let's face it, most students are not excited about history. Over my past six years of teaching I have heard the "history is boring" comment all to often.

I have two classroom incentive programs I use in my classroom. Both were not my idea. I acquired them from fellow educators.

Classroom Bingo!

I teach 7 periods a day. Each class will have one BINGO card. The seven BINGO cards hang on a wall for all classes to see along with the game's instructions.
I also have a cup with 100 numbered Popsicle sticks. The class can earn multiple stamps on their BINGO card daily for numerous reasons:

• All students arrive to class on time.
• Every student came to class prepared with the essential supplies.
• Every student is working on warm-up without being reminded or prompted.
• Every student turned in their homework.
• Students are actively engaged in the lesson.
• Great classroom discussion.

As the students earn stamps I pull a Popsicle stick from the cup and place a stamp on the class's BINGO card. The first class to get 10 stamps in a row (vertical, horizontal, or diagonal) will earn a prize. (restroom pass, homework pass, a slushie for each student, ice cream party, etc.)

Smith Cash!

Unlike Classroom BINGO which is based on the classroom's behavior, Smith Cash is an incentive program for individual students. I don't think all students should be punished for a few student's misbehavior.

Student's have an opportunity to earn tickets. Tickets can be earned by:

• Reading aloud to class.
• Answering discussion or warm-up questions.
• Staying on task. 
• Being a respectful.
• Random acts of kindness.
• Turning in work 100% completed.

The students can buy prizes at the classroom store with their tickets. The prizes can include homework passes, restroom passes, extra credit on a test, pencils, pens, erasers, or any other kind of incentive.