Should I give 'Tommy Points" to my classes?

[wdleehi]

As I am getting ready to go back into the classroom full time, I am wondering, should I give "Tommy Points" to my students?


You know, when they say something smart or on point.  When they take a big chance in front of the class.  Or do something that I just find I like.



And of course they will mean absolutly nothing in terms of grades or prizes.   They will be just like here, a way to feel good about ones self.

[Drucci]

I like this idea, it would be original. Plus, it would motivate your students to answer your questions and work more in class, since they would get some "gratification", which would be harmless since there won't be any competition between students.

How old are your students?

When I was in school, there was a similar system which consisted in "images" (french word). When you worked well in class or when you were involved in class, you would get an image, which was a little drawing on paper with a title (and maybe a number but I'm not sure). You could collect them by answering well to the teacher's questions in class, and then show them proudly to your family and friends. It was a nice system but I don't think it exists anymore.

[housecall]

Suppose you find out there are more anti-Celtics students(fans)than there are fans of the Celtics in your classes? ...it could get ugly.

[Rondo2287]

I dunno, as much as I think it would be a good idea, just based on interactions here some kids may get upset that others get TP's when they dont.  I would love the idea personally but depending on how old the kids are they may get jealous. 

One thing that I think you should bring in that I have done is whatever subject you want-Basketball.  My 6th grade math teacher did it with me, and then when I taught religious ed to kindergardners and 3rd graders(Jesus Basketball)  Basically you split the class into teams, ask questions that test their knowledge, like how they were paying attention and stuff, also promotes teamwork if its math problems or something. If the team gets the question right they get one point.  Then you set up a trash can at one side of the room and different stations where the teams can shoot from(if they get the question right) for bonus points.  Its fun, gets some learning across, and all you need to buy is a ball!

[cdif911]

give them cdif points

[screwedupmaniac]

Suppose you find out there are more anti-Celtics students(fans)than there are fans of the Celtics in your classes? ...it could get ugly.

at least he'd know which kids to discriminate against in the grading process! Lakers fan...hmm, should be a B+, but C- sounds more like it...Lebron jersey? D...

[Celtic]

Absofruitly, I would have loved this when I was a kid.

[nickagneta]

And when they mess up or misbehave you can give them KP's, Kobe Points.

[greenwise]

As I am getting ready to go back into the classroom full time, I am wondering, should I give "Tommy Points" to my students?


You know, when they say something smart or on point.  When they take a big chance in front of the class.  Or do something that I just find I like.



And of course they will mean absolutly nothing in terms of grades or prizes.   They will be just like here, a way to feel good about ones self.

Of course! It's a way to motivate kids. Go for it!

[RebusRankin]

I like it.

[Edgar]

Age of the kids WL.

[Reggie's Ghost]

If you do this, please keep tabs on the outcome and keep us updated on your roster stats.  I would find it interesting to see how your TP totals correspond to final grades (if you have them, how old are these kids again?).  My guess is, TP totals will probably correspond to higher grades.  If this ends up being the case, your regular grade system actually functions as your TP system, and there no need for both.

I think on a practical level, pros are it would encourage good behavior, and foster a future generation of Celtic fans.  Cons are it would create class favorites (who will then get their asses kicked), and serve to alienate kids who already might be somewhat anti-social.

Good luck, love to hear how this idea turns out 

[Hoyo de Monterrey]

I think on a practical level, pros are it would encourage good behavior, and foster a future generation of Celtic fans.  Cons are it would create class favorites (who will then get their asses kicked), and serve to alienate kids who already might be somewhat anti-social.

See but that's the beauty of this idea if done correctly. Does Tommy Heinsohn give TPs to the high scorer every night? Not necessarily, he gives it to the unsung heroes, the players who may or may not get recognized for accomplishments.

If you use these right and make sure that they can become a tool to highlight people that aren't dropping A+s on every test, but people who have improved grades, or done something to show they worked really hard on something, this could be an incredibly effective classroom tool. Don't give little Timmy Overachiever 500 Tommy Points while the next closest guy has like 7, but if you spread them out and highlight those who wouldn't normally get recognized when they deserve them, that could be really excellent.

[wdleehi]

Quick answers


1)  HS Physics.  10th, 11th and 12th graders.

2)  Probably few to no Celtics fans since I am in VA

3)  I am not keeping track of TPs I give.  I will have students track their own. 

4)  I will give them for good answers, taking chances in class, good lab work, helpful behavior, good tests, showing improvement in the subject and anything else that fit my fancy of that day. 

I plan to find a way to give TPs to every one.

[nickagneta]

Quick answers


1)  HS Physics.  10th, 11th and 12th graders.

2)  Probably few to no Celtics fans since I am in VA

3)  I am not keeping track of TPs I give.  I will have students track their own. 

4)  I will give them for good answers, taking chances in class, good lab work, helpful behavior, good tests, showing improvement in the subject and anything else that fit my fancy of that day. 

I plan to find a way to give TPs to every one.

What no Kobe Points for the class clowns and troublemakers??