Effort+&+Recognition

**Read and Reflect**
  I try and show students that effort is really the key to success by doing mostly project based learning. I also share with them when my lessons fail or fall short so they can see that even the best laid plans can end up without success but can lead to huge learning events.
 * How do you currently apply this strategy, with or without the use of technology?**

I show student work that goes above and beyond what the expectations are for the project. Also, since the majority of the work turned in from my classes is done electronically, I give instant feedback. I have found that when I praise effort, those students tend to do better the next time and still better each time after.

**What new insights or ideas did you gain from the reading?**
====I need to do more to show my students that effort=achievement. I know that I often become focused on the end result and forget to reinforce the importance of effort in the process. Right now, effort is what is lacking in most of the students who are struggling in my classes and I have to find a way to get them to put in the effort so they can achieve. Most of my struggling learners have not seen the connection between effort and achievement so I need to highlight it! ====

**How might you use this tool in your classroom?**
====I could use this tool for students to showcase their own efforts in the class. By creating these and printing them out, students could see inspiration that they created, not just cookie cutter posters seen in classrooms all over the country. I know when students have a stake in the class, they are willing to work harder. This tool could help me to make my classroom, THEIR classroom and not just a place they visit 5 times a week. ====