Four Feedback Ideas for Everyday Use

Here’s a few ideas that are quick and easy to introduce into your daily routines.

1. Feedback to Students:

Try the words, ‘I notice that you …’ in both a written and verbal format when providing feedback to your students.

Students get a real boost of confidence when they know you have noticed and commented on their achievements – a great motivator!

Tip: Always provide positive feedback when using ‘I notice’.  

If a student has an error in their work say, ‘Here is a tip for you’. Tips are small but useful pieces of practical advice.

Using the word ‘tips’ with your students keeps them feeling comfortable and willing to accept advice and assistance when required.
e.g. Here’s a tip when you spell …
       Here’s a tip, when you add numbers vertically have the hundreds, tens and ones columns directly underneath one another.
       Here’s a tip, it’s always important to choose an Optimal Work Environment for yourself because you must be good to yourself and make the most of every learning and work opportunity.

2. Whole Class Correcting during Mathematics Time 

Choose students at random to call out the answer. If they are unsure or do not have an answer they say, ‘I am not sure yet’ or ‘I am ready for new learning’.

If an answer is provided and other students disagree they call out, ‘Challenge’. Using the word ‘challenge’ allows other students to provide an answer they think is correct. Ask them to justify the reasons for their answer.

The word ‘challenge’ is not a put down and is readily accepted by students.

3. Making a Considered Decision: 

Use the words ‘considered decision’. Eg Did you make a considered decision when you chose to sit where you knew other students around you would be a distraction? Think again and make a considered decision to benefit yourself. It’s important to look after yourself. Get it sorted/organised now please. Ok?

4. Follow Up:

After introducing Teaching with a Feather strategies I recommend that you regularly revisit the purpose behind using the strategy. This will clarify to students ‘real reasons’ why you are using the strategy and why it is important. Use the Learning and Life Tips as a spring board for discussions.