In our classroom economy, I do not give students actual money each time they earn pay. I use a system called "Credit and Debits."

Each student has a credit and debit log sheet where they are given tallies for the money they earn. Whenever a student earns a dollar, it is marked as a single credit in their log book by the teacher using a red pen. This makes for a quick and easy way to pay students at the end of the day without having to count out bills. (Learn how I use the credit and debit log books, and download credit and debit log sheets.)

There are many ways to earn money (credits) in our classroom economy. Hard work, responsibility, good behavior, and academic achievements are rewarded in our classroom economy. Of course, poor behavior, lack of responsibility, and lack of effort are ways students can earn debits. Debits are subtracted from the total amount of money a student may accumulate during a given month.

As a class, we create a list of ways students can earn credits and debits on a daily basis. Of course, as the teacher, I can choose to give credits or debits for anything I deem appropriate throughout the day.

In the photo, you will see a sign that hangs in our classroom as a reminder to students about how many credits they can earn for specific accomplishments and how many debits they earn for irresponsible behavior.

Check out how to create credit and debit notebooks here.