As state testing season approaches, teachers have an opportunity to inspire and motivate their students to do their personal best. Beyond traditional methods of preparation, adding in creative and positive elements can make a HUGE difference in students' confidence and performance.
BULLETIN BOARDS: A VISUAL REMINDER
Bulletin boards can be so much more than just decorative elements in the classroom – they can serve as powerful visual reminders for students to work hard, stay focused, and do their best. It doesn't have to be hard to create a super cute and meaningful bulletin board for testing.
Steps for creating an encouraging bulletin board for your classroom:
- Choose a meaningful saying (for example “We can do hard things”)
- Add a matching border. Teacher Tip: Layer the border for a standout board!
- Refer back to the bulletin board when times get tough and students need an extra boost.
- Get students invested by including student-made pieces
POSITIVE POSTCARDS: SPREADING JOY & ENCOURAGEMENT
Postcards have some serious power! It is so easy to personalize postcards with a handwritten note (or typed note) of encouragement. You can easily highlight specific strengths for each student.
Share your confidence in their abilities and remind them of the progress they've made throughout the school year. The anticipation of receiving a positive postcard at home through snail mail or simply placed on their desks can boost students' morale and motivation, helping them approach testing with a positive mindset.
TEST NOTES: WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT
In the days leading up to state testing, surprise your students with special test notes placed on their desks or lockers. The short, heartfelt messages of encouragement, remind students of their capabilities and resilience.
Check out this free resource…
Positive Testing Notes FREEBIE
Encourage them to stay focused, take deep breaths, and believe in themselves. These small gestures can make a big difference in alleviating test anxiety and boosting students' confidence as they prepare to tackle the exam.
POSITIVE AFFIRMATION CARDS: CREATING SELF-BELIEF
Create a collection of positive affirmation cards for students to refer to during moments of doubt or stress. Each card features a powerful affirmation designed to instill confidence and self-belief.
Encourage students to choose a card that resonates with them and repeat the affirmation silently or aloud whenever they need a boost of positivity. Display the affirmation cards in a easily seen location so students can refer to them all day long! The best part…they are a freebie for you!
Positive Affirmations
State testing season presents both challenges and opportunities for teachers to support and encourage their students. By incorporating creative and thoughtful strategies such as bulletin boards, positive postcards, test notes, and affirmation cards, you can create a culture of positivity, resilience, and success in the classroom!
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