ContractsContracts Ben Jackson And Drew Hillertz

Overview Agreement between student and teacher –C–Certain freedoms and choices granted to student –S–Student agrees to use freedoms appropriately in completing work according to specifications set forth

Why use contracts? Blend skill- and content-based learning to students need Eliminates unnecessary skill practice for students Allows students to work at appropriate pace Helps students learn planning and decision-making skills important for independence as learners Allows teachers time to work with individuals and small groups Can encourage extended study on topics of interest Can foster research, critical and creative thinking, application of skills, and integrated learning

What to watch for Blend both skill- and content-based learning in the contract Match skills to readiness of the learner Match content to readiness, interests, and learning style of student Allow student choice, especially in content-based portions of the contract From the outset, establish clear and challenging standards for success Provide rules for the contract in writing When possible, focus the contract on concepts, themes, or problems, and integrate appropriate skills into required projects or products Vary levels of student independence and time span of the contract to match student readiness

Practical Application Students who finished assigned work early –A great signal that a child needs to be challenged is when they constantly complete work early and show competency of the task given. –Contracts are a great way to provide some extra challenge and incentive for the student to work longer and harder. Example –Checklist of components of knock your socks off quality work »Broader choice of topics (maybe even giving the student free choice) »Perhaps holding them either to a higher standard or just not accepting work you know is not the best work they can do. »Let the student pick a more difficult book to read rather than the book being read in class, or another book in addition to the one read in class. »Allow the student to create ideas for projects or papers to demonstrate knowledge of the book selected.