Independent Work System (Task Boxes)

Using independent work systems in the self-contained classroom is a must to build stamina and independence for students.  How to use them in your classroom......

1. Set a structured time each day for independent work. I allot 35 minutes for my students to complete  their independent work. Set a timer so students know when the time is over. 

2. Tailor the work to student skill level. The goal of this time is for students to build stamina and independence. Don't give students work that will cause frustration. Still challenge students but make sure they have been exposed to the work you are giving them. 

3. Not all work needs to be academic. I like to incorporate fine motor practice into student work bins. This could include put in/ put on tasks, beading, using tweezers,  or scissor activities. These activities all strengthen their fine motor skills

4. Determine how much work students need to complete. I have worked with my students a number of years so they all complete up to six work bins each day. If you are just starting independent work bins in your classroom I would start with having students complete 3 bins. You can then increase their activities as they get more comfortable with this process. 

5. Have a bin system. I have done this a number of ways over the years depending on classroom space. Currently, I have each bin numbered (1-6). Students know they work left to right to complete their  work bins. We worked on this procedure at the beginning of the school year.  After they complete a bin they put the bin on the "all done" shelf. This also lets the teacher know that they have completed all tasks. During independent work time we want this to be a quiet time in the classroom. When students have completed all bins the teacher can check them. Never take students work apart in front of them. We want their efforts to be meaningful for them. If we take it apart we are showing them that their efforts and work was not important. 

6. Give an earned break. Prior to starting independent work have students pick a "break" they are working for. You could have students pick from a wall of visual break choices. Or have individual break boards that align to their interests. Some of the breaks my students enjoy choosing in our classroom include sensory bins, books, and IPAD.  This is just like  when we go to work we receive a paycheck. Students need this to build the understanding if I do "x" I get "y." 

7. Have another time scheduled during the day for students that do not finish their work. This is key for students to understand that completion is important and imperative for future important. You do not earn a break unless you complete your work. Just as we do not earn a paycheck unless we complete our work. 

By creating these systems in your classroom you will see increased growth in students academic and overall self-help skills. My goal in my classroom is to get my students as independent as possible for them. Have a great teachers. If you have any additional questions or comments please feel free to email me at seethepossible330@gmail.com

See the Possible. 

Dulce