Boost Student Success: Breaking Down Big Tasks into Achievable Milestones

Hey tutors and parents. Here’s a handy teaching trick we often use in the classroom: breaking down big tasks into manageable chunks.

With exams on the horizon, it's essential to help our students tackle their school work effectively. One approach we've found helpful is breaking tasks into smaller milestones using either the:

1. goal-based method
   

2. time-based method

For the goal-based method, imagine a student struggling with a daunting English essay. As a parent or tutor, start by saying, "Finish just one paragraph, then you get a 10-minute break."

Here, you should be clear about what constitutes a paragraph, like having at least 5 sentences or following the PEEL format. This makes the milestone feel achievable, motivating the student to complete it and earn their break. As they gain confidence and momentum, increase the challenge to two paragraphs before giving a break, and so on.

For the time-based method, consider a student grappling with tough math problems. Set a timer and say, "Work on this problem for 10 minutes, then you get a 5-minute break."

Again, it’s essential for you to define what they should do during those 10 minutes, like talking through the problem's logic or vocalizing areas of confusion that they’re facing. The countdown timer encourages them to use their time wisely, knowing a break awaits.

This approach will vary based on age, subject, and workload complexity. But in the classroom, we've seen these methods help students struggling with motivation, self-discipline, and understanding complex topics. It empowers them to manage their expectations and take ownership of their learning journey.

Thanks for continuing to write to us with your questions on pedagogical approaches in the classroom. We’re happy to field any questions that you may have, so keep them coming