Friday, April 4, 2014

Tell Them How

Students need specific and focused praise to help them grow and understand how life works.  If we use the simple phrase such as “you’re doing great” or “lookin' good” that doesn’t really say much.  It is generic and non-specific. 

A great twist on this idea would be this:  “I love the way you phrased that last set of measures.  You really played with great expression.”

Specific praise leads to an increase in specified behaviors.

Let them know in exact words HOW they are pulling off ‘great’. 

Positive esteem followed up with examples reinforces the behavior and helps us want to do more of that kind of good work.


P Michael Biggs
Offering Hope
Encouragement Inspiration
One Word at a Time



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