No-Cost Classroom Ideas to Motivate Middle School Students

Are you looking for classroom ideas that are cost-effective ways to motivate your middle school students? Have you tried a behavior tracking system but need help finding suitable rewards? Forget expensive prizes; reward coupons are the perfect solution! Not only will your students appreciate being rewarded with things they value, but these free classroom rewards will also save money for other essential classroom supplies. Let’s explore some fun and free classroom reward ideas that will keep your middle schoolers engaged and motivated.

1. Assignment Extension: Ideal for student-athletes balancing practice, games, and academic work. It demonstrates support for their interests while maintaining accountability.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

2. Special Pen Use: Allow students to use your gel pens. They get to choose one for the class subject or period.  

3. Work in the Hallway: Middle schoolers really love this one. I highly recommend keeping your door cracked or open as you are still responsible for them.                                                                                

4. Listen to Music: My elementary students loved this one. Middle schoolers would need to bring their own headphones.                       

5. Working Together: In middle school, where friends are everything, letting students work together helps them learn from each other, makes things more fun, and creates a good place to learn.

6. Bring a Snack to Class: Who doesn’t love a snack? I would keep a few extra snacks for students to choose from if they forgot. 

7. Bring a Drink to Class: Many loved this.

8. Chew Gum in Class: I have done this one in my classroom and have to say I was nervous but it worked out well. I had this one on repeat with no regrets. 

9. Complimentary Assignment Pass: My students used to love this reward. You could use it as a homework coupon with clear instructions as to what can be skipped.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

10. Eat Lunch in the Classroom: This is an awesome one. I would allow them to choose a friend to eat with as you monitor. 

11. First in Line: This one can be altered to first in line and/or first in the cafeteria line. Make sure you clear this with other classes/teachers. 

12. Flexible Seating Options: Let students choose their seats for the day, giving them a sense of independence. If you have alternate seats, let them choose those options first. You could also offer the seat at your desk.                                       

13. Sock Day: I;ve used this as a class reward but can definitely use it as an individual reward. 

14. Free Time: Offer students a variety of options for free time activities, from reading to playing games, to chatting with friends.

Are you ready to put these no-spend classroom reward ideas into action? These classroom ideas  are designed to motivate students, spark creativity, and create a fun and engaging learning environment.

Each week, you can offer a selection of 2-3 rewards. Regularly rotating the rewards creates excitement and anticipation among students, as they eagerly work towards earning them.