Levels: The Classroom Management System That Will Get You Out of Rewards
Levels is a virtually no prep behavior management presentation and system that fosters a responsive and intrinsically motivated classroom. It takes the bribery out of management and teaches students to make the right choice because it’s the right thing to do and to mend any harm caused by their actions.
This idea came to me when a student picked up a pencil for me, I said “thank you” and then they asked me if they could have a point in our behavioral point system. It blew my mind how such simple acts of kindness seemed to be a token of sorts in our current educational climate.
It led me to a handful of discussions with my students about behaviors in the classroom. Based on their feedback, it seems like they want to be in a class where behaviors are managed but also enjoy the concreteness that reward systems provide - thus enters LEVELS!
There are three levels in this system that guide students to Level Three - which is the ideal classroom. To get there, the students have to complete Level One (consider and connect) and Level Two (collaboration) (though you may choose to have different levels). You both will practice operating or problem-solving in that level until it feels like second nature. Once that happens, you can progress to the next level or to your ideal classroom, which is Level Three!
Level Three is really whatever you want your classroom to be. For me, it looks like students not needing to raise hands, being able to sign themselves out to go to the bathroom, and basically being able to lead their own learning while I facilitate. It also could look like having class outside, more project choice, and more student choice. The beauty of it is that you and your students will come up with what your ideal classroom looks like together - hence the buy-in.
There are also structures in place for when things go sideways like if expectations aren’t met, there’s a rough day, etc..
I have other resources linked to ensure that both you and your students understand the expectations that need to be met, and more importantly, why they need to be met. Some other resources included in this resource are access to videos, graphic organizers, and discussion questions.
THE BREAKDOWN
Google Slidedeck of over 100 slides that will guide both you and your students through the Levels system
Teacher notes and pacing guide so you know exactly what to say, do and prep
Links to external videos to engage the class (and give your voice a break!)
Graphic organizers to help you and your students
Additional resources to help you dive into further to this content
Hex codes and font information so you can personalize as you wish
Bulletin board printouts to help you display this in your classroom