Tired of teaching while stressed? These 10 classroom hacks shared by real Kenyan teachers make learning fun, manageable and effective
Let’s keep it real, teaching in Kenya’s system can feel like juggling with your eyes closed while standing on one foot. Between assessments, endless creativity requirements, and individualized learning paths, even experienced teachers sometimes feel like newbies.
So we went straight to the source: real Kenyan teachers. No theory. No textbook advice. Just practical, tested and sanity-saving classroom hacks that actually work.
Here are the top 10 tips that educators swear by and trust us, they’re worth trying.
1. The “Think-Pair-Share” Hack
CBE emphasizes learner participation. Instead of calling on one child, have them think, pair up, then share answers.
- Outcome: Improved confidence + collaboration.
Works for: Grade 3–7
2. “Topic in a Box” Strategy
Before class, place themed items (pictures, objects, flashcards) in a mystery box. Learners guess the topic using clues.
- Outcome: Instant curiosity and excitement for the incoming lesson.
Works for: All levels
3. “Rhythm Recall” – Teaching Through Song
Teachers use locally-inspired songs to teach everything from math to social studies.
- Outcome: Better memory retention and class participation.
Example: A song for parts of a plant with simple choreography? Iconic.
4. “Exit Tickets” for Quick Checks
Before students leave, hand them a sticky note to write one thing they learned or one question they still have.
- Outcome: A quick, fun way to assess understanding.
Bonus: Learners love being asked for their opinion.
5. Make the Wall Work
Transform classroom walls into functional learning zones:
- Spelling walls
- Math puzzle corners
- Interactive maps and charts
Outcome: Learners stay visually engaged even when you’re not talking.
6. 5-Minute “Brain Breaks”
When attention drops, introduce short games, stretches, or songs.
- Outcome: Resets focus, especially during double lessons.
7. Picture Assignments
Ask students to bring in or draw something from home related to a new topic; family structures, weather, hygiene tools, etc.
- Outcome: Connects schoolwork to real life and sparks conversations.
8. Role Reversal: Let Them Teach
Pick one student to “teach” a concept for 5 minutes weekly. Give them a card with prompts.
- Outcome: Ownership of learning + public speaking practice.
Pro Tip: This works magic in upper grades (Grade 5 onwards)
9. The “Quiet Clap” Signal
Tired of shouting “settle down”? Use 3 rhythmic claps instead. Students repeat and silence follows.
- Outcome: Instant, non-verbal attention cue.
Bonus: It works like magic.
10. Storytime Fridays
Every Friday, close the week with a themed story either read aloud or acted out. Let learners vote on the story or bring their own.
- Outcome: Builds literacy, critical thinking and classroom bonding.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone
CBE is evolving, and so are teachers. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone and there are small, consistent hacks that can make your classroom joyful and impactful.
Got a classroom trick that works wonders for you?
Share it with us on our socials or drop it in the comments. Let’s create a network of support, one hack at a time.