5 Reasons to Use the One Word Strategy in Your Classroom
As we gear up for a brand-new school year, you and I both know how important it is to build a positive classroom culture from day one! One of the ways I love to do this is by using a “One Word” Back to School Activity.
What is the “One Word” strategy? Rather than setting goals for the school year, I have my students choose one word that can become their focus throughout the school year. To begin with, I teach my students that focusing on “One Word” can help them to bring positive change into their lives and help them to become their best version of themselves. I teach them that not only can they use this strategy at school, but they can recreate it as they grow up. I then give them as many examples of positive words and explain what they mean and how they may look in action. From there, I let them choose from positive and powerful words such as “focus,” “persistent,” or “kind.” Or I let them choose their own original and unique words.
Once students have chosen their one word, we create banners. I print out banners for students to write an “I am” statement. For example, “I am brave. That means I may feel nervous or scared, but I do the right thing any ways.” Then, they color the banner, and we hang them on a bulletin board for everyone to see. I also print and laminate small cards with the definition of their word on them so students can keep them on their desks or in a place where they can read them each day.
The following are some of the benefits I have seen from using “One Word” activities in the early days of school:
Building a Positive Classroom Community
Sharing our “One Word” with others, whether as a presentation, class discussion, or simply posting our banners, shows the whole class that we are each working toward bettering ourselves, and everyone, including me, has room to grow.
Developing Confidence
When my students begin to understand that they can grow, learn, and change, it gives them confidence. They feel empowered to try harder, make mistakes, and try again.
Setting Personal Goals
When students share their aspirations or goals for the year through their chosen word, it can inspire others and create a sense of motivation to achieve their own objectives.
Positive Classroom Management
Once I know each student’s word, I can direct them toward better learning behaviors simply by mentioning their One Word goal. Reminding a student that they can be persistent, they can be organized, or they can be kind to others is a game changer.
Teacher-Student Relationship
As teachers, participating in the activity ourselves can help build rapport with our students. It shows them that we value their thoughts and feelings, fostering a positive teacher-student relationship from the start. I love choosing a new word each year! It shows my students that even as an adult, we still need to learn, grow, and change.
The beauty of this “One Word” Back to School activity lies in its simplicity. It can be adapted for any grade level or subject and can serve as a springboard for further discussions and team-building exercises throughout the year.
These One Word Back to School Banners are easy to make in PowerPoint! However, if you are short on time, let me help.
One Word Back to School Banners
Includes full lesson plan, introductory PowerPoint presentation, tons of banner options, and cards to laminate. It comes in both a print version and a digital version.
