Strategy #9 Keep Them Laughing Sheila Baltz Lindsey George

Laughter http://www.youtube.com/watch?v =xqEtxdT4hPM

The one main reason for using humor in the classroom is to improve student learning. Using humor can have very definite positive effects for the following reasons: 1. The use of humor in the classroom can help to create a more positive learning environment by breaking down barriers to communication between the teacher and the students.

2. Humor can help students retain subject matter, especially if the humor reinforces the class material. 3.The use of humor may give students a reason (hopefully another reason) to attend class.

4. Increased comprehension and cognitive retention (presumable due to less stress and anxiety), reduced student negativism or hostility regarding potentially confrontational issues in the classroom, as well as improved students attitudes towards the subject and the teacher. 5. A teacher who effectively prepares and uses humor in the classroom will find that teaching is more fun and enjoyable.

Ways to use Humor in the Classroom Puppets - for read alouds and learning centers Cartoons – ice breakers Games – Jeopardy, Who Wants to be a Millionaire, Sparkle, spelling bees, and math downs Multiple choice answers – so obvious it makes the answer clear Example: The planet Pluto is best known for being? a. home of the little green men b. newest edition to the NBA c. a dwarf planet

Let’s share our favorite jokes. www.azkidsnet.com Resource for: knock knock jokes, riddles, brain teasers, wackyfish, silly American states, great for bell work Examples: There could be a cookie jar of knock knock jokes that the student of the week gets to pull one out and share with the class. Riddles and brain teasers can be something used while we as the teacher are setting up for an activity or at the end of the day. Wackyfish can be something used just because its funny. Silly American states is a great way to help the students remember the states. Let’s share our favorite jokes.