HOW DOES AN INDIVIDUALIZED LESSON PLAN WORK?

Individualized lesson planning is a core component of the Kumon Method. Instructors know that each student learns differently, so they create a plan and adjust it to ensure they’re on track to meet their goals. They also create a study plan that outlines how a student will progress through the program. The plan includes the proposed number of worksheets to complete per day, which worksheets will be assigned including repetition if needed, and an estimate of the time it will take the student to complete each level. The study plan allows instructors to communicate clear goals with students and parents. 

Here are some of the factors that instructors take into consideration when creating and adjusting an individualized lesson plan for a student:  

Assessment

Students receive a free assessment test at the start of their Kumon study. The assessment evaluates their current academic abilities plus things like focus and concentration, stamina, confidence, and general learning attitude. The assessment test allows the instructor to determine the starting point in the Kumon Program. It also serves to help determine their study projection for the student. 

Starting Point 

The starting point for new students is in a level where they can study comfortably to build the habit of studying with concentration. In the initial levels, students should find the work quick and easy and develop the mindset, “I can do it on my own!” When students begin to make mistakes, they should be able to correct mistakes without assistance.  

Repetition 

Repetition provides students with practice to master concepts and advance to higher-level materials. The number of repetitions students need will vary according to their ability, approach to studying, and learning attitude. Close observation of the student’s worksheet study and analysis of their completed worksheets allow instructors to determine whether repetition will result in smoother study for a student.  

Standard Completion Time (SCT) 

The international statistics derived from students determine the Standard Completion Time (SCT) for each set of worksheets. Instructors use the SCT as a guideline and compare it with a student’s completion time. The standard completion time is a key measure used to evaluate whether a student continues practicing through repetition or is ready to advance to the next concept.  

Student’s Focus and Concentration 

Instructors also observe a student’s ability to concentrate on the assigned worksheets. They aim for students to complete the worksheets comfortably without getting distractions or drastic slow downs. Other ways to gauge focus and concentration are noting whether they move to the next worksheet immediately after completing a page, and whether they are writing their answers neatly in appropriate-sized lettering. As students advance to the higher levels, their completion times naturally increase as the worksheets increase in difficulty. The ability to concentrate for longer periods of time will be crucial to their success. 

Takeaway 

Individualized lesson planning is done by considering a variety of factors for each student. Instructors will discuss the student’s goals and develop a plan to work towards these within a specific timeline. At-home study is critical in helping students reach these goals and progress with their learning. Learn how to support at-home studying in the Parent’s Guide for Implementing the Proper Study Approach.