Helping Students Manage Big Projects

Part of school, no matter what grade your child is in, is completing big projects. When students are younger, these projects tend to be simpler, but as they get older, the assignments require more research and planning. When tasked with writing a 10-page research paper or creating a presentation, your child might feel overwhelmed, unsure of how to get started. Teaching them strategies for breaking down projects into smaller, more manageable tasks can be a valuable tool.

Review the Project Requirements

Sit down with your child and review the assignment in detail. What deliverables do they have to create? Is it just a written paper or do they need a poster, model, PowerPoint, or something else to go with it?

Carefully read through the rubric or grading sheet if there was one provided so you know exactly what the teacher will be looking for and what criteria they are assessing. Write down any questions so your child can ask for clarification before they get started.

Break Things Down

Now that your child knows what they have to do, break down the project into smaller chunks. Consider how long it will take to do each part so together you can schedule it out accordingly and not be rushed at the last minute. For instance, doing research may take a few hours, whereas finding pictures shouldn’t take as long.

Use index cards to write down what needs to be completed each day. This can make things appear less overwhelming and more manageable. Your child can check off each task as they finish and see their progress. Creating a visual calendar can help as well.

Don’t forget to have your child compile a list of materials they’ll need as well. If they have to create a poster or model to go with their project, what supplies do they need? Poster board? Markers, glue, ink for the printer, scissors, or other materials? Plan ahead so you’re not running out at the last minute trying to find things.

Monitor Progress

Make sure your child plans time into their daily schedule to work on their project and get each small chunk of tasks done, whether that’s creating an outline, writing the introduction, editing their essay, or planning out their poster. Encourage them to stay on track and manage their time so tasks don’t continually spill over into the next day and start piling up.

If your child gets frustrated, talk through what they are struggling with and how they can work through problems. Come up with different solutions together and let them pick what they feel would work best. Remind them to take short breaks to clear their mind and refocus. Don’t forget to praise them for their efforts and progress to help them stay motivated.

Get Help

Crafting Scholars offers a variety of programs to support students in being more successful in school ranging from improving executive functioning and organization to building writing skills and content knowledge. Contact us today to learn more about how we can create a customized learning plan aligned with your child’s needs and goals.

Originally published at https://craftingscholars.com on November 8, 2023.