How to Create a Classroom Checklist

Checklists are an invaluable resource for teachers. No matter what grade level, students and teachers can both benefit from a visible and clear checklist. Checklists can be useful in a number of ways: as a compilation of classroom expectations and rules, a rubric for general essay formats and an assessment of what needs to be in every student's backpack every day. Consider placing various checklists throughout the classroom to enhance efficiency and minimize frustration. Offer students a copy of the checklists to keep in their agendas.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

How to Create a Classroom Checklist

1. Decide the number of checklists you need. More than one or two may overwhelm students and lessen their impact, but they could work later. After a test run with the first checklist or two, ask the class if they find the checklists helpful and brainstorm ideas together for additional checklists if necessary.

2. State items on checklist very simply and clearly. If the checklist is a list of items needed for class or of details that need to be present on every essay, make those expectations extremely clear. Overly wordy lists are rarely helpful. If the checklist contains tasks, use action verbs in the active voice to make the chore easy to understand.

3. Write the checklist on a large piece of poster board for classroom display. Append to each item boxes that can be checked off. Put the list on laminated poster board and post it in a highly visible spot in the classroom. Refer to it regularly so that students learn that it is a regular part of their classroom routine.

4. Create miniature laminated versions for students to place in their agenda books Encourage students to use checklists and to carry dry erases for that purpose. This will give students a chance to exercise responsibility and take charge of their own organizational skills.

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