Learner Strategies

In your agenda/to-do list, number your tasks starting with #1 as the most important. Then complete your tasks in the order that you set. Consider due dates as well as depth required by assignments with creating the order.

Do it now if it's important. If you put things off, they only stress you out more and become more difficult to complete adequately. By waiting, you often give yourself more work and get less help.

Break up large, tough tasks into smaller, easily accomplished parts. Use your agenda to break down an assignment into manageable chunks each day by working backwards from your deadline.

Establish a quiet hour, even though it requires will power. Make sure that your siblings and family understand the importance of this time for you to complete your tasks, so that afterwards, you can enjoy your time with them and be relaxed.

Concentrate on what you are doing. This means you’re not trying to multi-task with social media, email, computer/video games, etc... while you are working. If you really focus, you will find you’ll have more time for other tasks you enjoy afterwards.

Learn to say "no" when you've got something important to do. Balance is always key when it comes to responsibly completing assigned task but also having time to enjoy yourself. Don't over-schedule. Allow some flexible time for crises and interruptions.

Learn to delegate group work fairly. If a task requires more than one person, make a clear plan with your group in-class or outside of class time to divide up the work load so that no one person has to do more than his/her share.

Honor your classmates time by following the plan, or proactively adjusting with your team as needed. Each member will work harder, and everyone will benefit if we all take a fair share.

Accumulate similar tasks and do them all at one time. In doing this, you can keep your momentum going.

Minimize routine tasks; spend only the time they deserve. Don’t spend an hour on a routine spelling assignment. Don’t rush either, but don’t worry about making these assignments “perfect" as they are more checking for understanding.

For example, some tasks shouldn't take more than 10-15 minutes to complete (consider the routine tasks from #8). Set a timer for yourself based on how long you think the task should take, and then measure how accurate your guess was. Afterwards, reflect on how your estimate related to reality. This will help you become more aware of your pacing and understanding of the topic or task at hand. If something seems to take too long, check in with a classmate to see if you fully understand the directions.