Two Stars and a Wish

This is a simple and positive way for both teachers and pupils to mark or respond to pieces of work, while at the same time identify ways of improving. The idea is that the two stars are given for two things that are good about the work and the wish identifies what could be improved, extended or attempted next time.

One of the best things about Two Stars and a Wish is its flexibility: It works in a whole range of subjects; with adaptation it can be made to work across all age groups; it can be used on anything from forming a single letter to review of a whole project; it can be as individual or as broad as circumstances demand and finally it can be applied in a range of ways. On paper; stickers, stamps or simple drawings can be used to highlight the points or the whole process can be done verbally either one-to-one, in peer groups or as a whole class.

To be effective children do need to be given practice in the kinds of positive language to use. They also need to understand the concept of and the specific learning intentions or aims of the lesson, activity or project. Having this knowledge ensures that the process is focussed on enhancing what you want the children to learn. As with all formative assessment strategies sharing, recording and following through on “wishes” is the key to success. The forming of a path of achievements that pupils and teachers can follow.