By: Tracy Peters, 7th Grade English Teacher: West Field, New Jersey

This idea costs me about 35 dollars a year, but I have actually worked it into my supply budget for next year. We all know Regis and his famous nightly game show. I decided to use the same game for 5-10 minutes at the end of every third day of class. I randomly choose one child who answers a series of 10 questions. Of course, all of the questions are content based from class material and they increase in difficulty. I also allow them to phone a teacher (my Principal allowed it due to the success of the game), give them a 50:50 option, and allow them to poll the classroom. The dollar values are increments of 10 cents with safeties of 25 cents, 50 cents, and 75 cents. The dollar is the ultimate prize. I have to admit you wouldn't think that a dollar could entice anyone, but then again I work with twelve year olds. This is also great if you finish early on any day.

Quote of the Week

"The teacher who is attempting to teach without inspiring the pupil with a desire to learn is hammering on cold iron.”

~ Horace Mann ~

Jokes You Can Tell in Class

While visiting his son at his Army base, a father chatted with a colleague of his son.

"What rank are you?" the father asked.

"I'm relieved to say that I've just been promoted from captain to major."

"Relieved? Why?"

"Because," the officer replied, "my last name is Hook."