The Good Behavior Game: An Effective Classroom Management Strategy for Every Student

In an effort to create a positive learning environment, educators constantly encourage and celebrate good behavior and achievements. An interesting method to encourage good behavior in the classroom is through the ‘Good Behavior Game'. This scientifically-backed classroom behavior intervention method is a simple and economical game that enhances teaching capabilities in a disruption-free classroom.

The game involves identifying certain behaviors students should meet, then sorting them into teams who must achieve these goals. Marks of achievement could be as simple as having fewer than three interruptions during a lesson. The goal and rules of the games are predetermined and written down to ensure clear visibility and access by everyone.

As the teams meet the goal, they are rewarded at the end of each lesson with anything from a quick game of freeze dance to free reading or drawing time, to prompt the teams to strive for victory. In addition to teaching teamwork and camaraderie, the Good Behavior Game emphasizes good behavior throughout the school day. If a team doesn't win during the lesson, there is always an opportunity in the next. It shifts the emphasis of peer attention, instead of mocking a disruptive student, they focus on winning the game.

The game cultivates improved behavior over time. For instance, first graders in classrooms that implemented the Good Behavior Game were found to be less shy and aggressive at the end of the school year.

Games promoting improved behavior are also beneficial for older students. One such game for high school students involves starting a two-minute countdown timer at the beginning of class. If no disruptive behavior occurs, the class earns a point and the timer resets for another chance. If disruptive behavior happens, the timer resets without the class earning a point. The objective is to reach 17 points, equivalent to 34 minutes of uninterrupted class time, resulting in free time at the end of class where students may socialize. The potential to cut lessons short and socialize is a significant motivator for teens to comply.

Implement the Good Behavior Game in your classroom and share this effective method in your educational community.

As ADDitude observes its 25th anniversary in 2023, its commitment to providing ADHD education and guidance through seminars, newsletters, user engagement, and its revolutionary magazine, continues. The readership’s support enables the provision of content and outreach. The organization thanks its community for their continued support and encourages subscription for continued services.