Independent Learning Consultation Feedback

I’ve finished my first batch of consultations this morning, and here are a few observations and recommendations:

• Formulate a study plan before engaging in any activities.  The study plan is for you to plan your studying; you should study first and then try to plan what you have already done!
• The evaluation form is your chance to prove to me that you have actually completed the task; so, be specific!  Write down the names of worksheets; mention specific skill areas; and finally, describe features of the task, worksheet, textbook.  Basically, by your supporting details, you want to prove beyond doubt that not only do you understand what you are learning, but also you in fact did the assignment!  Insufficient responses or vague ones will lead to failure.
• In your evaluation forms, make sure you connect your needs analysis to why you chose the activity (question number two); and furthermore, ensure that the task you chose fits the weakness
• Demonstrate your learning.  It will be an unpleasant day for any student who completes worksheets on articles yet fails to use them properly in writing his report!
• Provide evidence, photocopies and printouts; if you want to submit soft copies, I can create a blog for you.

We shouldn’t focus too much on the four evils:

• carelessness
• laziness
• a lack of confidence
• a lack of opportunities

Instead, we should focus on the four treasure skills:

• phonics
• phonemic recognition
• contextual analysis
• morphemic analysis

Our Facebook page has many links to the aforesaid skills; and just type the key words into Google and you’ll receive dozens of useful Weblinks.