Setting objectives, providing feedback, and providing recognition:
I think that setting objectives is very necessary because it helps you define where your students are at and where they need to go. I agree that objectives should be specific but flexible. I find that being flexible allows me to adapt to what the students need most versus the pace I think I should be moving at. I also agree that communication is essential. So many times teachers do not show rubrics to the kids, but it would help the kids make better sense of what the expectations are for each unit or project. Communicating with parents also helps keep parents as allies rather than foes.
Feedback is essential especially when you engage in project based learning. I find that prompt and specific feedback helps students stay focused on the expectations of each project. I like to sandwich my feedback by starting with positives and ending with a positive wrap up and suggestions for improvement. Most of my feedback is given through email or through the comments section of a wiki or within a Google Doc. Whenever possible, I try to use a different color so that it is separated from the student work. I also try to leave feedback near the places where I recommend a change or more development rather than in one long paragraph at the end. Because my feedback occurs so promptly, student time on task is more focused. Lastly, the bulk of my feedback concerns content versus usage and grammar. I may make a comment about technical things, but I prefer to focus on the actual substance of a project.
Recognition for me occurs in almost the same way as feedback. I try to find specific places where I can leave a well developed positive comment rather than a general "good job" statement. I have also saved good student work and used it as the "good" example of what students should be striving for. I think students appreciate this, though most will act embarrassed and surprised.
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