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Think of the
students you encounter throughout the day. Some may be creative
or ingenious, others noticeably organized and conscientious.
Some seem quite sensitive and involved with their friends, while
others are interested in stirring up trouble. Just like adults,
children have their own style, preference, and ways of
operating. With such a variety of personalities, what can we do
to promote achievement, prevent behavior problems, and get kids
back on track once problems occur?
True Colors
is a simple method for understanding personality types by
grouping common attributes into four colors. Using its concepts,
the first step to fostering successful student behavior is to
identify the dominant color style of each of your students.
Using the metaphor of color, when a child is “shining” brightly,
they are using their skills, talents and natural preferences in
positive resourceful ways. When you understand a student’s color
style, you can better understand his or her needs. Students who
have a sense of worth and self-respect tend to exhibit behavior
that contributes to and overall productive learning environment.
The color lingo to personality traits is as follows:
|
ORANGE
STUDENTS |
Attributes When Shining
Active
Take Charge
Competitive
Negotiator
Spontaneous
Performer (Entertaining)
Multi-Tasks |
Needs
Freedom to express
Practical application
Hands-on activities
Variety, choices
Attention
Stimulation, excitement
Fun and play |
|
BLUE
STUDENTS |
|
Attributes When Shining
Friendly
Helpful
Compassionate, considerate
Cooperative
Emotional, expressive
Imaginative, creative
Affectionate |
Needs
To be included
Affirmation
Compassion, warmth
To be heard, to share
Outlet to help others
Acceptance
Friendship |
|
GOLD
STUDENTS |
|
Attributes When Shining
Prepared
Reliable
On-task
Sitting up straight
Follows rules
Sets example
Organized |
Needs
To Know the Plan
Consistency
Structure, Rules
Organization
Responsibility
Recognition
Appreciation |
|
GREEN
STUDENTS |
|
Attributes When Shining
Problem-solvers
Independent
Tenacious
Self-assured
Witty sense of humor
Logical
Analytical |
Needs
Time to think and plan
Efficiency
To be successful
Intellectual stimulation and
challenge
Competency
To respect the teacher
Innovation, creative outlet |
For the next
few weeks or so, see how well you can determine the color styles
of your students. Notice what needs they have in common with
each other (and you), and especially those they don’t! What
creative methods can you come up with to make sure your school
environment and approach includes ways to embrace the needs of
all four of the True Colors styles?
Mary Miscisin is the author of
SHOWING OUR TRUE
COLORS - A Fun, Easy Guide for Understanding
and Appreciating Yourself and Others.
(c)
2005 Mary Miscisin, All Rights Reserved.
www.PositivelyMary.com
Permission to
duplicate this article is granted ONLY with the copyright and
contact information intact.
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