This is hard to do during virtual or in-person classes, but of course, the former emphasizes the challenge. Many times, as teachers, we make many assumptions and think that our kids got it. Probably, they didn’t. Here are some things you can do to ensure comprehension:
- Focus on one set of directions at a time.
- Be concise and explain why you are requesting this from them (yes, it helps to know).
- Provide examples (other student’s work, videos, photos, etc.).
- Use visuals (pictures, videos, screenshots, screensharing).
- If teaching synchronous, ask a student to repeat the directions so everybody can hear them again.
- Provide a checklist so they don’t miss a step (this has worked wonders for me!).
- Be very specific (i.e.: instead of “create a brochure” say “create an 8”x11” digital or paper brochure…”. Instead of “answer…” say “answer in complete sentences using words from the vocabulary list”.
- Don’t forget to include things like “provide examples”, “don’t use electronic translators or help from others”, “do it in Spanish”, “use the vocabulary learned”, etc. (if you didn’t say it, then they would think it is allowed or not required).
- Post and repeat the directions in different formats and several times.
- When creating directions, focus on the questions: What? When due? How? How many? What kind? What for?