Last month was a rollercoaster for me, at least emotionally. Every TnL need to be consciously planned, reviewed, revised and revisited. Sometimes I feel like a failure. I’m starting to feel the weight of the responsibility to truly reach my students. I know from past experience that learners often need something extra to stay motivated — something that feels exciting, rewarding, and personal.

After a conversation with a surprisingly insightful doctor (who was supposed to be treating me, not advising me!), I walked away with more than just medication — I left with a renewed sense of purpose and a practical idea: “Children thrive on competition.”

And just like that, a new plan started forming in my mind.

🎯 A Simple But Hopeful Intervention: Weekly Competitions

I haven’t launched it yet — but I’ve been preparing with hope and excitement. The idea is to hold weekly competitions that alternate between team-based and individual games, tied closely to what the students are learning in class.

Here’s the plan I’m praying will spark a difference:

📅 The Competition Breakdown

💻 Week 1 & 3: Super Kahoot! (Individual Game)

These weeks will feature quick-fire Kahoot quizzes based on our lessons.

• The Top 5 scorers will earn the Super Kahoot title

• Winners will receive small instant prizes right after the game

🔤 Week 2 & 4: Spelling Star Challenge (Group Game)

Students will be grouped into teams of five and will play either:

• Spelling Bee – where they spell aloud in front of the class

• Hot Seat – where one player guesses a word while teammates give clues

🏆 Scores will be tracked on a big mahjong paper scoreboard, and at the end of the month, the best-performing team will receive a small prize and the title Spelling Star Team. I’m keeping it fun, low-cost, and meaningful — with certificates and possibly Perky Piung merchandise if I can find a way to get them!

I want students to feel that hard work and focus are rewarded, and that learning can be something to look forward to — not fear.

🎁 Bonus Motivation: Stickers & Badges

To keep the momentum going, I’m also planning:

• A Sticker Redemption Poster where students can trade classroom task submissions for stickers. 

• Helper Badges to give students class responsibilities and pride in their role.

🌈 My Hope

I haven’t rolled this out yet — but my heart is full of hope. I want to believe that with the right mix of structure, encouragement, and fun, my students will feel:

• Seen

• Motivated

• Excited to participate

• And most importantly — confident in their ability to learn

It’s not just about prizes. It’s about giving them moments to shine.

If this works, I’ll share the journey — the ups, the flops, and hopefully, the wins too. 💛

If you’re a teacher trying something similar, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s keep supporting each other as we do our best for our learners — one star at a time.

Full of hope! 

Teacher Asniem