What is a Super Improver Wall?

So what is this Super Improver wall that I have seen popping up.  I use a clip chart (the whole grade level, and almost the whole school are using it) this year and it has been working great!  I didn't look into the Super Improver wall because I a) Don't feel like I can get rid of it due to the school, and b) I really like the way it is working and i just don't want to change it.

 I found Ms. Shipley's video tutorial (a bit shorter than the full webisode by Coach B which was perfect for me!)  I was able to get a quick 15 minute spinet on how it worked and how to set it up in my primary class.  Now I am ready for more (Here)!

The Super Improver Wall does not take the place of my clip chart (although it could) but rather is going to add to it!  It is a way to meet more needs and give a better (and more individualized) reward! 

Quick ideas here:
Why does it work?
- It works because you are setting individual goals (just 2 or three things for each kid to be working on) and this improves the full participation of your class.  For example if a student has a hard time talking with their partner (looking at them, facing them, using their motions, etc) one aspect of it could be something you look for to move up the super improver wall.

How much work do I have to do to get this thing going?
- Love the WBT community because so much of the heavy listing has been done!  WBT has a list of words (using a sports theme) to use for the wall.  The idea is that there are levels going up so you can create any words that fit whatever theme you are into.
- You will need to have some die cut stars (ok, a lot of them- 10 class sets, this will be the most time consuming part, but should not be more than around 30 minutes- if you have parent helpers it's no time!)
- you will need a way to mark the srats to show progress

When should I start this?
- I am going to try it in 2 weeks.  We have many new students right now and are doing some assessments.
- If starting at he begging of the year it has been suggested that you give it about a week to first teach the other procedures of WBT and lets those wee kiddos gain some confidence

 More Details:


There were two runners.  One fast, and the other slow.  They ran the same way everyday.  Everyday the fast runner wins and the slow runner looses.  Soon the slow runner quits  and the fast runner loafs.

Sounds like it is time to get a new race: Enter Super Improver

Now the runners only win if they beat their previous PR.  They are not competing against each other- but against themselves. (story modified from Coach B)

This truly is an individualized- differentiated system.  We are setting attainable goals for each student to be successful!  This system gives each child an opportunity to record 100 improvements!  How motivating is that?!?!  (More than 1 star every 2 days- you are going to see it!)  And who says you have to stop- keep on going, add fancy paper!

Ok, So I have 26 students.  I have a hard time seeing each improvement in my day.  Idea: I can keep a set a post its near my rocking chair and tech center with lists of kiddos to watch.  This way I know who and what I am looking for that day.  Of course there are always moments that are seen and would be acknowledged right away.  Personally, if it is not written down I forget it.  That little pad also means that I am not taking any time to have the kids add to their stars.  I call it out, give a ten finger whooo, and then I can add it as I am teaching or when we transition.  My post-it holds all the information- who what and why!  I can use this as a reinforcement through a reminder later (for those kids who really strive in verbal praise).

It comes down to the fact that you are the teacher and this is your classroom.  You can make this system work for you and adjust it to fit your needs.  Watch it, think about it, and dive in!  Let me know how this works for you in your rooms!