• What it is: A board (or online space) with pictures next to new vocabulary words.

• How it helps: Makes words easier to remember—great for English learners and struggling readers.

• How to use it: Use sticky notes, index cards, or an interactive whiteboard.

• Digital Version: https://wordwall.net/

2. Story Retelling with Puppets (Physical Classroom)

• What it is: After reading a book or Bible Story, students use puppets (or finger puppets) to act out the story.

• How it helps: Keeps kids actively involved while improving comprehension and storytelling skills.

• How to use it: Use sock puppets, print-out characters, or even finger drawings!

• Resource: https://www.rotation.org/topic/amy-cranes-detailed-bringing-the-bible-to-life-using-puppets

• What it is: A tic-tac-toe style board where students pick their own learning activities.

• How it helps: Gives students a say in their learning, which makes them more motivated!

• How to use it: Offer 3-5 activity options (e.g., drawing, acting, writing) for each topic.

• Example Template: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=5807

2. Interactive Whiteboard Games (Physical & Digital Classroom)

• What it is: Fun, clickable activities on a smartboard for phonics, math, and reading.

• How it helps: Makes learning feel like a game! Keeps students focused and involved.

• How to use it: Try drag-and-drop word games, math puzzles, or team quizzes.

• Resource: https://www.abcmouse.com/abc/login/?8a08850bc2=S841885690.1739064981.853&fromtm=1

• What it is: A free online game where students race to answer questions.

• How it helps: Turns review sessions into fun competitions—great for all subjects!

• How to use it: Create a quiz on Kahoot and have students join on their devices.

• Example Guide: https://kahoot.com/files/2021/06/StarterGuide_0621.pdf

2. Classroom Escape Room (Physical & Digital Classroom, Tech Tool)

• What it is: A puzzle-based activity where students solve challenges to "escape" a locked scenario.

• How it helps: Encourages teamwork, problem-solving, and engagement in a fun, hands-on way.

• How to use it: Use a pre-made escape room from Breakout EDU or create your own with clues based on the lesson.

• Example: https://ditchthattextbook.com/digital-escape-rooms/

Read here: https://www.edutopia.org/article/6-strategies-building-better-student-relationships/

✅ Enjoy learning – They don’t just do work for rewards but because they want to grow and improve.
✅ Stay engaged – They take initiative, ask questions, and actively participate.
✅ Build confidence – They feel proud of their progress and are more willing to take on challenges.
✅ Develop lifelong skills – Self-motivation helps them become independent thinkers and succeed in school, work, and life.

Read how here: https://www.usm.edu/faculty-development/student-self-motivation-strategies.php#:~:text=Focus%20on%20Growth%20Mindset&text=As%20such%2C%20it%20is%20recommended,assist%20with%20increasing%20student's%20motivation.

Technology:

• https://speechify.com/

• https://www.kurzweiledu.com/default.html

• https://math-talk.com/

• https://www.attainmentcompany.com/gotalk-9