Whether you teach children or adults, you know how important clear instructions are. Whether you’re teaching a subject (eg, third grade, high school literature, or college algebra) or training adults (eg, training workshops, seminars, and classes), you’ve learned that the success of an activity is in the instructions.

Giving clear instructions can be a challenge no matter who the audience is. Are here 7 key steps any instructor or presenter can follow to minimize confusion and maximize success.

As you read through this scaffolded process, watch as students/participants proceed step by step from “Hey?“a”oh!“

1. B.put things down. If the activity has several parts, give the instructions part by part. Once students complete a segment, stop the class and have them continue with the second part. This helps students focus on each section piece by piece. Key Question: How do I break the activity into parts?
2. meExplain the activity. Telling students what they are doing and why helps them connect with the task. We don’t need to go into a lot of details; an overview is fine. Providing students with the purpose behind the activity invites them into the activity. Key Question: How do I succinctly tell them what to do and why?
3. againstCreate a step-by-step outline. Having clear and succinct instructions written on the board not only keeps the teacher focused when explaining the activity, it also gives students an anchor when they are doing the activity. At any time, they can refer to the steps and reorient themselves. Key Question: How do I simplify the instructions?
4. Land the students see what the activity looks like. Modeling for the first class shows students what it will look like. Show and tell is an effective way to reach all kinds of learners. It is also the first step in helping students succeed. Key Question: How can I show them what it should look like?
5. meexperience with a student. Modeling the activity with a student is the next step in scaffolding. They have just seen the teacher do the activity; Doing a part of the activity with a student builds confidence and understanding of how to complete the task. Key Question: How do I model this with a student to drive success?
6. HAStest your understanding. Having students tell you and show you what they are supposed to do is the best way to take the pulse of the class. When two students model the activity without instructor support, the entire class has an opportunity to clarify their understanding. Key Question: How do you get the audience to show me that you’re ready?
7. Rcouple misunderstandings. If students seem confused, stop the class, correct the confusion, and restart the activity. The students will get more out of the activity you have prepared. You’ll work less because you don’t have to go from group to group recounting instructions. Key Question: How do I effectively and efficiently redirect the class?

Giving clear instructions is essential to make the most of any activity in the classroom. As teachers, trainers, and presenters, we spend a great deal of time planning engaging and meaningful lessons and presentations.

Spending a little time scaffolding the audience into the activity sets everyone up for success.