It’s the little things that create a community in your classroom.
After completing a quiz, have the kids do something on the back when they’re done (this is a great way to prevent straying eyes getting answers) and then having the second student grade the paper and interact with whatever was done on the back.
Variations:
- Draw a maze; the second student completes it
- Draw a picture; the second student compliments it
- Draw a cartoon character; the second student adds a funny dialogue bubbles!
And, if you’re brave enough, let your students draw YOU; the second student writes something you say all the time! Here’s a few of the drawings my students made of me.

Even though the first time I suggested it was totally on a whim, I loved the instant infusion of positive interaction in my classroom!
Any other creative suggestions?