As my fourth graders near the last third of the school year, I surprise them with this program. The goal is to focus all of their energy into improving in as many of these areas as possible. Students start the week by filling in a sheet stating where they currently are. Then, during IW, they fill in the appropriate spaces provided on the sheet. Setting goals during IW inspires students to refocus and achieve higher successes.
Students strive to reach their goals for intrinsic reasons.
I've never had a year yet, when a student hadn't improved in at least one area. At the closing of IW, I surprise the class with an awards ceremony that the principal attends. Students receive certificates for their achievements and a surprise donation from local sponsors. Sponsors often will sponsor an entire area or just donate a gift or two. They are proud of themselves and often view themselves with more confidence.