Addressing the four basic needs of students (A Mod 3 Reflection)

In a classroom, much like any environment, students need to have fun, have freedom, feel competent, and have a sense of belonging. As a teacher I believe these principles can be reinforced in the following ways:

1) Provide students with opportunities for success:
- In open class discussions, prompt children with questions you know they can succeed at. This will boost their confidence in the subject matter, and overall. When doing this, a teacher much be conscience of how comfortable an individual student is with the subject at hand, and direct an appropriate level question to that student. However, teacher’s should be careful not to hold back students or patronize them by asking questions which are too simple.
- When a student exhibits a specific strength, whether classroom related or not, attempt to provide opportunities for him/her to showcase it. In primary, this may be as simple as providing show and share time, while in secondary, this may be allowing a student to complete an ISU on a personal hobby/activity he/she is particularly good at.

2) Feeling like he/she belongs:
- Ensure your students exhibit respect to everyone in the class, no matter who they are. This ranges from listening respectfully, speaking respectfully, openly sharing ideas, and accepting/analyzing ideas which are brought forward.
- Aim to value your students who contributing, not just being “right”. Encourage group discussions where the focus is on the process of discussing, rather than just the product.
- Encourage students to work in different groups/partners throughout the year. A good way of doing this is letting them pick their group members per project (so they still feel in control), but not allow them to work with anyone twice. By doing this you allow the students to progressively make new connections to other students in the classroom as they become more comfortable.

3) Acts of Generosity & Recognition
- After the completion of an assignment/project, exhibit exceptionally completed assignment. This can range from displaying them in the classroom to simply mentioning to the class that a copy of said assignment have been retained as exemplars for next year.
- Aim to recognize all of your students throughout the year, even if it is not directly for the subject you are teaching. For example, an English teacher can give praise for more than just reading, writing, and oral presentations; highlight students’ excellent personal qualities as well.
- Recognize when your class has been working hard and reward them. This could be a special activity/day. Additionally, recognize your student’s needs for extensions, or breaks when they deserve it.

4) Feeling Stimulated/Having Fun
- Provide students with opportunities to move around. Make your classroom as interactive as possible. A great way to do this is simple 5 minute activities/icebreakers at the beginning of a unit/topic.
- Allow students to bring activities forward which interest them. Allow them to be the leader/teacher during such instances.