The ultimate learning goal for any student is independence. Once we establish independence in our students then we truly set them up for the figure and everything else seems easy. Here are 5 simple steps:
- Make sure you have an ‘independence plan’ for the week which involves a different subject being taught each day. (Mon – nouns, Tue – 3D shapes, Wed – Narrative writing, Thur- addition of 2 digit numbers, Fri – sentence structure)
- Make sure that when you deliver each of the lessons, you introduce a new tactile material that assists the learning of each concept.
- Model how to use the material explicitly, state your expectations clearly and model the way you would like the children to record their answers.
- Allow the children to use the material independently with you looking over their shoulder to make sure they are using it correctly. Only assist the child if asked!
- Prepare the environment each day by laying out the materials they have mastered and as they arrive into the environment say, “good morning, I’ve put the 3D shapes on your desk, it would be great if you could get started and start recording your answers, I’ll be giving you a lesson at 10am.”
This allows you to have several children working independently on arrival into the classroom each morning while you help the learners who need you most.
If we follow these steps at home and in school. Independence will flourish.
#school #education #teachers
3 Responses
Correct Gavin. It’s always better to prepare children to be independent and encourage them to be on board.
Excellent article, I hope more and more parents to follow your suggestions and our children to become really independent for real life.
I enjoyed the reading. Children need emotional support , space (flexibility) to experience and investigate as well as rich environment.