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Helping Teachers Thrive

How to Master Independent Work: Top Strategies for Teachers

Ep. 106

DESCRIPTION:

In this episode, Tem shares actionable strategies to set the stage for effective independent work in your classroom using explicit instructions. Learn how to reduce disruptions and foster student success, whether managing a silent writing task or a group activity. These tips will empower you to cultivate focused, independent learners who thrive under your guidance.

Use this link to book a discovery call if you want to feel confident in your classroom and discover how I can support your journey to becoming empowered: https://calendly.com/tem-helpingteachersthrive/discovery-call 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Go to Mastering teaching to unlock exclusive content, strengthen your skills and access resources to help level up and thrive in your teaching profession for the price of a coffee!
  • Clear, explicit instructions before tasks reduce ambiguity and ensure students understand what’s expected.
  • Repeating and checking for understanding boosts compliance and minimises off-task behaviour.
  • Setting a consistent routine for independent work creates a predictable and supportive learning environment.
  • Using visual aids and modelling reinforces expectations and engages all learners.
  • Explicit instructions benefit all students but are especially vital for those with additional educational needs.

BEST MOMENTS:

"We have to paint the best picture possible"

"It creates a predicable environment that is so important for students with additional learning needs"

"Our students will push boundaries"

VALUABLE RESOURCES:

Go to Mastering teaching to unlock exclusive content, strengthen your skills and access resources to help level up and thrive in your teaching profession for the price of a coffee!

EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT:

Proven Methods for Capturing Student Attention - gain CPD hours listening to this episode!

ABOUT THE HOST:

Since embarking on her teaching journey in 2009, Tem has been on a mission to empower students to reach their fullest potential. Specialising as a Secondary Physical Education Teacher, Tem also has experience in Special Educational Needs (SEN) as a class teacher in an SEN provision. With an unwavering commitment to helping students become the best versions of themselves, Tem believes in the power of education to shape not just academic prowess, but character and resilience. Having mentored numerous teachers throughout her career, she is not only shaping young minds but also nurturing the growth of those who guide them.

ABOUT THE SHOW:

The podcast for teachers of many years, trainee teachers or Early Career Teachers (ECTs). Join Tem as she delves into the diverse world of teaching, offering valuable insights, tips, and advice on a variety of teaching strategies to help teachers thrive as classroom practitioners. 

CONNECT & CONTACT: 

Email: tem@helpingteachersthrive.com

Instagram: instagram.com/temsteachingtips

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tem-ezimokhai-23306a263

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  • 109. Confident and Ready: Mindset Strategies for Teachers Returning After a Holiday Break

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  • 108. How to re-build positive relationships with students

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  • 107. Teacher Happiness Hacks: How to Enjoy Time Off and Find Inner Joy

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    48:27||Ep. 102
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    DESCRIPTION:Feeling overwhelmed by unexpected deadlines or extra responsibilities? You’re not alone. In this episode, discover how to shift from reacting emotionally to responding thoughtfully when new tasks are imposed on you. Perfect for educators who want to protect their well-being, stay organised, and maintain a sense of control in the fast-paced world of teaching.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Go to Mastering teaching to unlock exclusive content, strengthen your skills and access resources to help level up and thrive in your teaching profession for the price of a coffee!Why staying calm leads to better outcomes for teachers.Discover how to prioritise tasks effectively using a simple framework to handle deadlines without feeling overwhelmed.Master professional and assertive communication strategies to negotiate timelines and set boundaries.Reframe extra responsibilities as opportunities for growth while maintaining balance and avoiding burnout.BEST MOMENTS:"It's ok to set boundaries so that you put your own self-care and well-being first""There's nothing wrong with saying no, there's nothing wrong with being assertive and clear""What gets done, gets done""That stress can lead to burnout""We need to practice some self-compassion"VALUABLE RESOURCES:Go to Mastering teaching to unlock exclusive content, strengthen your skills and access resources to help level up and thrive in your teaching profession for the price of a coffee!EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT:How To Protect Your Time and EnergyOvercoming a Toxic Environment: Boost Teacher Well-Being and Job SatisfactionABOUT THE HOST:Since embarking on her teaching journey in 2009, Tem has been on a mission to empower students to reach their fullest potential. Specialising as a Secondary Physical Education Teacher, Tem also has experience in Special Educational Needs (SEN) as a class teacher in an SEN provision. With an unwavering commitment to helping students become the best versions of themselves, Tem believes in the power of education to shape not just academic prowess, but character and resilience. Having mentored numerous teachers throughout her career, she is not only shaping young minds but also nurturing the growth of those who guide them.ABOUT THE SHOW:The podcast for teachers of many years, trainee teachers or Early Career Teachers (ECTs). Join Tem as she delves into the diverse world of teaching, offering valuable insights, tips, and advice on a variety of teaching strategies to help teachers thrive as classroom practitioners. CONNECT & CONTACT: Email: tem@helpingteachersthrive.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/temsteachingtipsInstagram: instagram.com/temsteachingtipsLinikedIn: linkedin.com/in/tem-ezimokhai-23306a263