- Name games. Play a simple name game: happy Holly, joking Jack, etc. Each student must create their own name. Mix the game up by students saying their name and passing it on. Vary adjectives according to age.
- Peer naming. Say the name of a peer, throw a ball to them and ask a question.
- Name cards. Get students to make their own name cards. Use them for as long as you need.
- Style file. Make a mental note of any distinguishing features (interesting shoes, distinctive hair, etc.) and connect that with the student’s name.
- Quirky facts. Ask students to introduce themselves with a unique trait, unusual hobby or most prized possession.
- Seating plan. Create one for every class and ask students to sit in the same place for a couple of weeks until you are comfortable using their names.
- Photo guide. Print off student photos with your seating plan, and colour code for SEN/differentiation.
- Total recall. If you are really struggling, redraw your seating plan from memory, and try to learn the names you couldn’t recall.
- Rhyming recollections. Associate names with a rhyming word, i.e. Ryan/lion.
- Imagery. Associate a visual image with names, based on the meaning of the name, or anything that you personally associate with it, i.e. Sultana/queen, Craig/rock, etc.
Download all 20 tips for remembering students' names.
