Backwards Mapping

1. DISTRIBUTE HANDOUT:  Distribute Student Handout Backwards Mapping Template to each member of the class.

2. DISPLAY EXAMPLE:  Display the Backwards Mapping Template Sample and discuss the process of backwards mapping with students.

3. LIST/BRAINSTORM:  List or brainstorm the components to the long-term project as a group.

   1. 1. • Students should have the project outline and rubric in front of them during the brainstorming.

4. LIST ACTION STEPS:  Have students list the action steps necessary to complete each component of the project and estimate the amount of time needed to complete each step.

5. ASSESS:  Assess completed template to evaluate students’ understanding of the process and the sensibility of the action steps that they have developed.

6. RECORD DUE DATES:   Have students record due dates in student agendas/planners and have frequent check-ins.

7. CHECK UP ON PROGRESS:  Provide opportunities for students to continually check their progress as they follow their action steps to complete the project on time.

Adapt this lesson for primary classes:

• Compile and organize a list of the components to the project.

• Give each student a copy of this list and discuss how much time is needed to complete each task.

• Allow for more frequent check-ins with students to ensure that expectations are being met and components are being completed in a timely manner.

To increase scaffolding...

• Assign student groups to an imaginary project where they will go through the backwards mapping process together as practice. When you come back together as a whole group, students can share out ideas that helped them be successful, as well as questions or misunderstandings that they had.

To increase rigor

• Students can design the project based on teacher criteria. Students can then develop a rubric that satisfies the expectations of the project. Following this task, students can go through the backwards mapping process.