The move
Each week, hand students one real decision, like co-writing a rubric line or picking a due date from two options.
See how it works
- One real decisionWith limits you’re fine with
- DiscussA reason for each option
- VotePrivate is best
- Honor it“Your call.”
At a glance
- Time in class
- 5–10 minutes
- Prep
- 2 minutes: choose one decision students can own and set its limits.
- Materials
- None (board for voting)
- Grouping
- Whole class
- Use it when
- Once a week
Why it works
When every decision comes from the teacher, rules feel imposed. A meta-analysis of studies on choice found that giving people choices increased motivation, effort and performance. Small, bounded choices work best.
Step by step
In class: about 4–5 min
- 2Explain the limits30 seconds
- 3Discuss2–3 minutes
- 4Decide1 minute
- 5Honor it30 seconds
Before class: Pick the decision
- Pick the decisionBefore classSomething real, with limits you’re fine with either way.
- Explain the limits30 seconds“This week you decide: the project is due Thursday or Friday. Either works for me.”
- Discuss2–3 minutes“Give me one reason for each option.”
- Decide1 minuteVote by hands or a quick private poll.
- Honor it30 seconds“Friday it is. Your call.”Then stick to it.
See it in action
Choose which of two books is the next read-aloud.
Co-write one row of the project rubric: “What does great teamwork look like?”
Choose the order of the next two topics, or the format of a review day.
Watch out for
- Fake choices: only offer options you’ll truly accept.
- Choices with no limits: two or three options keep it manageable.
- The loudest voices deciding: use a private vote.
Level up
- Students propose the decision they want to make next.
- A rotating student team runs the vote.
Make it work for everyone
- Multilingual learners: show options with pictures or icons.
- IEP and 504 supports: make sure every option still meets required accommodations.
- Students who disagree with the result: offer a private alternative when possible.
Tech option
A one-question anonymous poll.
Resources
Pairs well with
Reflect
Did students follow through better on the decision they made themselves?
Evidence
ModeratePatall, E. A., Cooper, H., & Robinson, J. C. (2008). The effects of choice on intrinsic motivation and related outcomes: A meta-analysis of research findings. Psychological Bulletin, 134(2), 270–300. Choice increased motivation, effort and performance across 41 studies.
Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic Motivation and Self-Determination in Human Behavior. Plenum. The theory behind why autonomy supports motivation.
Find the research: Patall (2008) · Deci (1985)