When I was in school, the end of the year awards were very strict, not funny. They included the fewest habitual absences, the most improved students, the best grades, the highest test scores, and extracurricular activity awards such as MVP, front-seat band students, theater students receiving awards. for earning a “one” in competitions and journalist receiving honors awards from all leagues or all states. Very common and highly anticipated. Everyone who received an award knew in advance that they were going to get it.
However, for most of the students, the awards assembly was generally boring, especially if they did not receive an award. In fact, I have noticed that there are quite a few students sleeping. And frankly, why shouldn’t they? It has nothing to do with them, but they are still required to watch, clap, and whatever other nonsense the master who cared for them wanted them to do.
The awards assembly was not a motivating experience. Seeing someone receive an award does not, at least necessarily, motivate a “C” student to receive all the “A’s.” Even if it did, the student may not have had the means to do it.
There are many factors at play to motivate students to improve. Sure, those who receive an award are proud, especially years later when they look at their scrapbook and find them; however, for most students, it is still simply a waste of time.
So how can you make the end of the year school awards more attractive? Making them fun and fun, of course!
These are some of my favorite ideas:
- Lead the assembly with a funny story from a teacher about an awards assembly they attended. Of course, it has to be in a good mood, so something like not receiving an award and being disappointed is a good option. Or maybe some other humorous story about a previous awards assembly.
- Have awards such as “the most hated student by teachers”, which should be given to a student in a good mood who has caused some problems, but is definitely not the most hated. The “class clown award” is another easy option in this department.
- Teachers can offer a mini-show. An act of mime, a one-act play, song, or teachers showcasing some of their rare talents. Maybe a mini talent show.
By doing something like this, you want to keep all students interested; they should never be bored at school. It also acts as a way for students to earn respect for their teachers by viewing them as humans and not just teaching robots.
In short, end-of-the-year awards are a great way to reward students; however, it leaves many simply wishing for the assembly to end. Instead, try mixing things up a bit and adding humor and other fun activities to keep them interested.