Independence Thermometer: How Much Help Did I Need Today

While stretching, students place themselves on a four-level thermometer based on how much help they needed in class, from relying on the teacher to helping others, and set what they will do to move up one level. It builds the independence expected in upper secondary and honest self-assessment.

How to play

1. Seated hamstring stretch while the four levels are explained: I needed constant help, I needed some help, I did it on my own, I helped others (1 min).
2. Each student marks their level on their card for two areas: organizing the task and performing it (1 min).
3. Butterfly hip stretch while writing one specific action to move up a level next class (2 min).
4. In pairs, each student reads their action to a partner, who will remind them at the start of next class (1 min).
5. The teacher collects the cards while everyone takes three slow breaths (1 min).

Rules

• Self-ratings are personal and aren't compared with anyone else's.
• The improvement action must be specific and observable.
• Keep stretches gentle with no bouncing while writing.

Variations

Adaptations

• Writing difficulties: choose the action from a list of options.
• Visual impairment: present the thermometer in raised format or say the levels out loud.
• Limited mobility: do upper-body stretches in the wheelchair and fill out the card the same way.

Learning goals

• Honestly assess one's own level of independence.
• Set specific personal improvement actions.
• See helping classmates as a high level of responsibility.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cards: 30
• yoga mats: 30

Teacher tip

Hand the cards back at the start of the next class so each student keeps their action in mind. It's useful before grading independent projects.

More activities like this

More cool-downs for High School