Effective Praise in the Classroom

by Rachel Wells

Praise is a powerful tool in a teacher’s arsenal. It’s free and the supply is unlimited. Praise acknowledges and reinforces positive behavior and contributes to a positive classroom environment where students strive to do better both socially and academically. In order for compliments and praise to be the most successful, you need to make sure to lay out what is expected of your students clearly and explicitly. Then, when you see a student paying attention, working hard, or doing what they are supposed to be doing to meet your classroom goals, compliment them, and make sure the rest of the students see you doing it. Everyone will quickly understand why you are pleased and in turn work hard and try to meet your classroom objectives in a positive way as well.

Remember to actively look for behavior you can praise (catch them doing the right thing!) and if possible, give a student a quick handwritten note of praise on a Post-it that they can take home and share with their parents.

Here are 20 phrases to praise students with at school:

1. I really like the way you worked through that problem.
2. I can see you really tried hard ….
3. I’m so happy to see you…
4. Do you remember when you couldn’t …. And now look at you! You’ve come such a long way!
5. Way to go!
6. You are very good at…
7. Thanks for being such an awesome student!
8. I’m proud to be your teacher.
9. You just made my day.
10. Your hard work is paying off!
11. You’re unstoppable.
12. Thank you for asking so many questions – it’s so fun to be your teacher!
13. I can see you are putting in a lot of effort.
14. I appreciate your help.
15. I knew you could do it.
16. Keep up the great attitude!
17. You should feel proud.
18. How impressive!
19. What a great example of being a team player.
20. Thank you for being so helpful.