Student Choice... How Much is TOO Much?

Choice in the classroom… how much is too much? How should I implement choice in my classroom? These are frequently asked questions by many teachers. I believe choice is an important aspect in every classroom, but too much choice may overwhelm students and the teacher. So, how do we achieve the perfect balance of allowing for choice within the classroom?

To begin, choice should be introduced at the beginning of the school year. Maybe you allow your students to pick their writing utensil… pen? Pencil? Marker? Maybe you allow them to choose where they read independently… at their desk? On the floor? In a bean bag chair? As the year continues you may allow for choices in assignments using choice boards. When introducing choice boards, start with something simple. You do not need to give students nine choices to begin, but try three or four instead. The choice board should align with standards and student goals. In doing this, students have the opportunity to show what they have learned in a way that is best fit for them. As you become more comfortable using choice boards, you may allow for more choices or more complex choices in assignments.

As for students, there are great learning benefits that come from using choice boards. Using choice boards allows for student-driven learning and engagement. Students may feel as if they have more of a choice in their learning when using choice boards. As students begin to pick their assignments, they are setting a purpose for their learning which also increases student engagement. Oftentimes, when students are able to pick something of interest to them, they are more motivated to complete the assignment.

In allowing for choice, there also must be guidelines and rubrics included. Choice does not equate to chaos. Guidelines and rubrics are important in setting academic expectations for every student. The guidelines and rubrics should include standards to be met in order to target mastery of specific skills. On top of providing guidelines and rubrics, the teacher should discuss learning intentions frequently. When students are aware of the learning intentions and success criteria, they know what is expected of them and are able to plan how to achieve what is expected of them.

Choice may be used for every content area. Although choice may look different in each content area, the same principles still stand. Some content areas may allow for choice in the content, process and product, while other classes may only allow for choice in the product of instruction. This is also true to grade level. A kindergarten teacher may allow for choice just as high school teachers do, but it will look different.

As we guide our students in making their own choices, we are also preparing them for the endless opportunities and choices they will encounter throughout their life. Choice in the classroom is an important way to empower our students and engage them in their learning. Allowing for choice may also allow for students to explore new topics, skills and interests.