As educators, we know that helping students develop the ability to follow directions is crucial for their success in school and beyond. In this blog post, we will explore various strategies and activities to teach students how to follow directions effectively, while also touching on related skills and principles of Social-Emotional Learning. Let’s dive in!

Introduction

Following directions is a fundamental skill that students need to develop in order to thrive in the classroom. By learning to pay attention when the teacher speaks, focusing on key words, and taking one step at a time, students can become more efficient and independent learners. Not only does this help them complete their tasks successfully, but it also fosters a positive classroom environment and strengthens their relationships with teachers and peers.

No-Prep Activity: Follow the Leader

This simple, no-prep activity can help students practice their listening skills and learn to follow directions effectively. To begin, have the students stand in a circle. Choose one student to be the “leader” and have them perform a simple action, such as clapping their hands or stomping their feet. The rest of the students must observe the leader and then repeat the action. After a few rounds, choose a new leader and continue the game. This activity encourages students to pay close attention to their peers and follow directions without needing the teacher to repeat them.

Discussion Questions

1. Why is it important to listen carefully when the teacher is giving directions?
2. How can focusing on key words help you remember what you need to do?
3. What strategies can you use to make sure you complete each step of a task before moving on to the next one?
4. How does following directions contribute to a positive classroom environment?
5. Why is it important for students to develop the ability to follow directions independently?

Related Skills

Besides following directions, there are several other skills that are crucial for students’ success in the classroom. These include:

• Active listening: By developing their active listening skills, students can better understand and retain information, which will help them follow directions more effectively.
• Time management: Learning to prioritize tasks and allocate time wisely can help students complete their work more efficiently and stay on track.
• Self-regulation: Students who can regulate their emotions and behavior are better equipped to focus on their work and follow directions without getting distracted.
• Collaboration: Working well with others is an essential skill for group projects and classroom activities, where students must follow directions to achieve a common goal.

Next Steps

Now that you have learned some effective strategies for teaching students to follow directions, it’s time to put them into practice. To help you get started, we invite you to sign up for free samples of related skill materials and activities. By incorporating these resources into your lesson plans, you can create a more engaging and supportive learning environment for your students. Don’t miss this opportunity to help your students develop the crucial skill of following directions!