What do you do when you have a student who can’t get their assignments completed?
Break assignment into smaller segments
Allow extra time to complete
Break the work time into shorter times with small breaks in between
Provide their assignment in written form (as well as verbal) with examples of what is expected
Use a timer with small intervals. Have the student get up to walk around and check for completion and accuracy.
I have maximized the important parts and minimized the least important parts. Adapting the assignments to meet the needs of the student and yet insuring that the learning takes place. I guess you would call this differentiation, but individualized to meet the needs of a particular student. I would also keep in mind what they already know and their strengths in learning.
All of the ideas shared are great ones! In addition I would add, reach out to the family. There could be an underlying issue there that the student hasn't communicated to you that could be stopping them from completing assignments. Share that you are concerned about the lack of completed assignments because you don't know how best to help the student if you don't know what they can or can't do. Empathy goes a long way with families!
I agree that dividing a task into smaller manageable chunks may help. Sometimes, I just take a marker and draw a line after a few problems or a section of reading. I ask the student to raise their hand when they make it to the line. I can quickly see how long, how accurate, and adjust from there. I will even do this for a struggling student on an assessment. It may just be a moment where they need a cheerleader.
I agree with chunking and adjusting the assignment. If this is a continuing issue, I would discuss the issue with the parents and then up to MTSS. The student may require an IEP or a 504 with documentation of accommodations to help them along the way.
