Value Voting Activity Guide

Objective: Students will democratically vote on the clustered norm statements to identify the top 5–7 values that will guide their classroom community.

Why: By giving each student an equal number of votes, we ensure that every voice is heard and that the final norms reflect the collective priorities of the group. This process builds ownership and commitment to the agreed-upon behaviors.

Materials Needed:

• Dot stickers (3 per student) or pre-printed checkmark stamps
• Clustered norms posters displayed around the room
• Vote Tally Chart (large paper or whiteboard)
• Voting template sheet (optional for younger students)
• Markers
• Timer or stopwatch

Preparation (5 minutes):

1. Post each cluster of norm statements on chart paper or wall space.
2. Prepare a Vote Tally Chart with space to record votes for each cluster heading.
3. Distribute dot stickers or checkmark stamps to each student (3 votes each).
4. Optionally, print a simple voting template for K–2 students with images or icons beside each cluster.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Introduction (2 minutes)

   • Gather students in a circle or at their tables.
   • Explain: “You each have 3 votes to place on the norms you care about most. You can put all votes on one norm or spread them out.”

2. Review Norm Clusters (3 minutes)

   • Briefly read each cluster heading and sample statement aloud.
   • Ask if any student needs clarification.

3. Voting (5 minutes)

   • Students walk around to each poster, placing dot stickers/checkmarks next to their chosen norms.
   • Encourage moving quietly and respectfully.
   • Teacher and helpers circulate to ensure understanding.

4. Tallying Votes (5 minutes)

   • As a class, count the dots/checkmarks on each poster.
   • Record totals on the Vote Tally Chart.
   • Identify the top 5–7 norm statements with the highest votes.

5. Reflection (5 minutes)

   • Ask:
     • “Which norm received the most votes? Why do you think it was so important?”
     • “How do these top norms help our classroom feel safe and respectful?”
   • Briefly discuss student responses.

6. Record Final Values (5 minutes)

   • Write the top norm statements in clear “We will…” language on a new chart or direct into the School Charter.
   • Confirm wording with students.

Scaffolding & Supports:

• K–2 Students:
  • Use voting templates with pictures or simple icons representing each cluster.
  • Model how to place a dot before students begin.
  • Provide sentence stems: “I chose this norm because ______.”
• 3–5 Students:
  • Allow independent reading of cluster statements.
  • Encourage students to explain their choices in small pairs.

Extensions & Differentiation:

• ELL Learners: Provide printed translations or visuals.
• Students with Fine-Motor Challenges: Offer stamps or stickers that are easier to handle.
• Early Finishers: Ask them to help tally votes or record results on the charter.

After Voting:

• Save all materials and display the Vote Tally Chart until the final School Charter is complete.
• Use the final list for the next step: “Finalize Norm Statements” in the main lesson.

School Charter Template

Use this template to record our agreed-upon norms, sign our commitment, and plan for display and reflection.

Classroom / Date: ________________________________

Our Norms

Write the top 5–7 “We will…” statements below:

1. We will ____________________________
   
   
   
   
2. We will ____________________________
   
   
   
   
3. We will ____________________________
   
   
   
   
4. We will ____________________________
   
   
   
   
5. We will ____________________________
   
   
   
   
6. We will ____________________________
   
   
   
   
7. We will ____________________________
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Signatures

Each student and teacher signs or initials to show commitment:







Name: ______________________ Initials: _____







Name: ______________________ Initials: _____







Name: ______________________ Initials: _____

Display Plan

Where will we post our Charter? ________________________________







How often will we review it? _________________________________

Reflection (After 1 Week)

Use the Community Engagement Rubric to reflect on our Charter.

• Which norm do you see in action most often?

• How do you feel when we follow our Charter?

• What can we improve or add to our Charter?

Keep this Charter displayed and revisit during our Circle times to ensure we all continue living by our norms.

Community Engagement Rubric

Use this rubric to reflect on how well our class collaborated to create and uphold the School Charter. Circle one performance level for each criterion.

Total Score: _____ /16
Next Steps: ________________________________________________________________