"The examples are the best. My daughter finally understood that to analyze something you have to look for and explain clues, not just state the facts. She added more to her lab report and got a better grade." (Mom of a 9th-grade student diagnosed with ADHD.)
" My son always says, 'I don't get it,' and shuts down. Sometimes, I don't get it either. But, using the guide, we're usually able to figure out what he needs to do." (Mom of 7th-grade student with a diagnoses of depression).
And let's be honest, you need your teen to get their work done completely and with minimal fuss because you have other things to do in the evening (dinner, diapers, your own work, etc.)
But, the cold hard truth is that...
#1. Academic instructions are complex and often confusing.
#2. In just two sentences, teens can be asked to do four things and if they miss one or two things, their grade can drop to 50-60% (an "F").
So...If you don't know how to quickly decipher instructions and explain them in simple terms, you may be unknowingly adding to your teen's frustration, overwhelm, and confusion.
Rather a dismal picture, I know. But, there is good news...
The way you support your teen can shift so that...
You can quickly and easily explain what to do and give your teen examples to follow.
Your teen can identify and complete every part of the assignment by themselves so you don't have to point out areas they missed and get the eye roll, exasperated sigh, or death stare.
You have time to do other things during the week.
More good news...
In my experience, the more teens can decipher instructions themselves, the less anxious they feel in class.
Hi, I'm Dynell. Educational therapist. Master explainer :)
After almost 10 years of helping students succeed in school (including my son), I am still amazed at how complex instructions can be. It is TOO easy for a student with ADHD to miss part of the assignment and subsequently get low scores.
Deciphering instructions is one of those "teach a child to fish" strategies because once they know clearly what they are being asked to do, they are off to the races. This support gives teens a quick hit of confidence.
My clients have been able to IMMEDIATELY RAISE THEIR GRADES ON THE VERY NEXT ASSIGNMENT whether it's a writing assignment, history test, lab report, etc.
I often hear comments like this one from a 5th-grade student, "Ms. Dynell always explains things so I can understand it better."
(Here's my secret: Make sure students understand the instructions in a way that gives them a clear picture of what they are supposed to do, help them put the steps in order, and check them off as they complete each step.)
Easy Ways to Explain Academic Instructions so your teen can raise their grades on their VERY NEXT assignment.
22 of the most common (and confusing) instructions on most classwork, homework assignments, and tests.
- Term definitions offered in clear and accessible language
- Practical examples with George and Sandy, two characters who demonstrate each term.
- Immediate access
Parents can use this guide to:
- Help your teen plan and complete their homework.
- Review your teen's work for completion.
- Ask your teen clarifying questions to guide their thinking.
However, in my humble opinion, the best possible use would be having teens:
- Use it in class if they are unsure of what to do and are uncomfortable asking for help.
- Use it to clearly identify what is needed to get the highest score on tests and assignments.
- Use it to ask good questions and actively engage in the learning process.
How much is it worth to see your teen be more confident, successful, and independent?
(And for you to get your time back?)
Get Instant Access for Only $14.00
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I feel better about being able to help.
"I've been out of school for a while and I get confused by her schoolwork. So, we look at the guide together when we need to. I feel good that I can help her more." (Grandparent of a middle school student)
