Have you ever thought about how a simple sticker makes students feel? Stickers give a sense of confidence. Not to mention the dopamine endorphins that are released when recognizing a job well done. A sticker also sends out all kinds of signals that one's efforts are praiseworthy. This leads to students trying harder in other subjects. A sticker gives students the courage they need to press on and put their best effort forward when faced with other challenges.
Do you have a cut-off point at which you give a sticker? What about the students who try their best but never earn the “A” or even a “B”? Do you give stickers to these students for their best achievements?
Do you give stickers to middle school and high school students?
They love stickers on their papers just as much as elementary students. In fact, when I teach at the college level, I put stickers on their papers and tests. They often thank me for giving stickers and remark that their papers are posted on the refrigerator for everyone to see. Sound familiar?
