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Tips for using table groups as a classroom behavior management system in the classroom. Includes free team signs to hang and record points.

classroom behavior system - table groups

Table Groups: The Classroom Behavior Strategy that Works!

Today I’m going to talk about one of my most favorite classroom management strategies: Using table groups as a classroom behavior strategy. I will also explain how we use them to earn points.

I have my class set-up into 4 pods/groups of desks. You can choose to have as many groups as you’d like for your classroom structure and layout.

Hanging over the top are 4 different colored pompoms hanging (red, green, yellow, blue). You can make these easily yourself using tissue paper and following a DIY tutorial, like THIS.

classroom behavior system - table groups pom poms

classroom behavior system - table groups pom poms and signs

Hanging from the pompoms are colored signs saying the group name and color.

classroom behavior system - table groups signs

Table Groups for Classroom Behavior

To coordinate, those pods also have matching colored containers on their desks that hold materials.

classroom behavior system - table groups setup

Here is an image of my desk set-up with the table group signs hanging over the desk pods with corresponding table caddies.

I also put mini signs on the whiteboard. Under each sign, I add points for each group as tally marks. I love that this is something small and doesn’t take up a lot of room on my board (I don’t have a lot of space left!).

I’ve laminated and stuck magnetic tape on the back of each sign and I keep it at the top of my whiteboard, where it doesn’t take up a lot of space.

classroom behavior system - table groups points on whiteboard

How the Classroom Behavior System Works

How it works is each group earns points throughout the week. They earn points for many things like leaving desks neat and tidy, working quietly, working hard, being bucket fillers, remembering to put up chairs, and lots more!

This class management technique is a teacher’s best friend because it is simple and encourages teamwork. The kids really work hard together and encourage each other to work hard and do their best! At the end of the week, the team with the most points earn the team trophy on their desk for the whole next week and those students get to pick a coupon from the coupon box. I also award the whole class when every group earns 40 points for the week. It works and it’s super easy to run! (And, just in case you didn’t know – Class Dojo offers a way to keep track as well)

FREE Table Group Signs to Easily Implement

I’ve included the signs as a FREEBIE for all interest to print, laminate and try out! This freebie includes 4 full-size signs to hang over tables in the 4 primary colors. I’ve also included the 1-page sheet that has all four mini signs on it, which is great to use on your board to keep track of points.