How to Use Sticky Notes in Teaching and Learning?

Sticky notes are a gadget that teachers and students often use to help with learning, so how to use post-it notes in the teaching and learning process? Here are some very useful tips for you.

1.     Set classroom or individual goals.

Challenge students to set goals for themselves or the entire class and post them as reminders. Move achieved goals to different graphs and celebrate successes.

2.     Hold a sticky note art show.

Choose a wall and host an art show! With such a small canvas, there is no need to limit the number of submissions that can be displayed, and the creative options are endless.

3.     Build bar graphs.

Introduce this graphing concept by using sticky notes. (Bonus points for using shaped notes that apply to your subject!)

4.     DIY a lesson-plan book.

End the expensive search for the perfect lesson planning book … just make your own! The Wise and Witty Teacher walks you through the steps at the link below. You’ll turn an ordinary spiral notebook into a customized planner. Amazing!

5.     Create a story map.

First, make a reusable story map anchor. Then, use sticky notes as you draw the characters, settings, themes, and more for the story.

6.     Teach variable substitution.

If your students are having trouble understanding the idea behind substituting numbers for variables, sticky notes can help. Just write the numbers on your notes and paste them into the equation where needed.

7.     Review using Connect Four.

Turn pre-test review into a game! Break students into teams. Each right answer gives them the chance to place their color on the board, in a race to see who can connect four squares first.

8.     Draw sticky note portraits.

In this twist on the art of sticky notes, students practice drawing grids using individual notes. For a little surreal fun, they can mix the notes after they're done!

9.     Indicate when help is needed.

Give each child a red note, a yellow note, and a green note. They can stick a corresponding sticky note to the side of their desk during independent work hours to show you whether they're working hard or succeeding without talking loudly and interrupting others.

10.  Demonstrate regrouping.

“Carry the one” can be a tricky idea to grasp. Make the visuals easier to understand with a sticky note and a pair of scissors.

11.  Construct a sticky note clock.

Tired of hearing "What time is gym class?" and "How long until lunch?" Use post-it notes instead of numbers and change them daily as needed. Make your own clock using a clock kit and cork board or buy a simple model.