High Order Thinking with Kiss the Brain Jar
I always strive to encourage my students to reach for that higher level thinking. This requires good “think times” for students as well has a “healthy struggle”. One way that I encourage this endeavor is with a Kiss the Brain Jar. I have used this for many years. Recently, I revamped it by upgrading from a small glass jar to this more “fancy” plastic jar from Wal Mart. I used my Cricut to cut out my saying in my classroom colors. Currently Wal Mart has a good selection of these “fancy” plastic jars in different styles to meet your taste. (less than $10.00)
CLick here for a link to where I found the jars.
At the beginning of the year, build the desire for high order thinking using the kiss the brain jar as a reward. It important to make sure students know that they must “earn” the kiss the brain with high order thinking. At first, my students will ask, “Is that a kiss the brain?” when they give responses they think are good. Soon, they learn what is “kiss the brain worthy.” I have developed a good balance of making sure I provide opportunities for kiss the brain. This is especially something I focus on at the beginning of the year. I always build that desire for “kiss the brain” and make a big deal when a student does achieve the honor. However, I don’t devalue giving them “just because.” My students know they must earn one with High Order Thinking.
Please check out other fun and engaging ideas to add to your classroom. Here is a link to my post on response dials.
Looking for a unique name to call on students? Check out my post on Not Popsicle Sticks