Characteristics
Students with task initiation needs don’t start tasks once assigned. They may not plan their work or use problem solving strategies. They may frequently ask for help and not meet deadlines.
First Then Charts
What it is
An area of student need, involving difficulty starting work.
Teaching Strategies
Instructional
• Chunk work into parts.
• Frequently check with the student to get him/her started.
• Use a key word and visual signal to indicate that work is to be started.
• Provide oral and visual instructions and examples.
• Use graphic organizers to outline the steps for work completion and timelines.
• Use a visual timer and/or stop watch for the student.
• Have the student use an agenda to plot out work.
• Set an attainable goal related to task initiation with the student, and measure successes.
• Reinforce improvements and efforts.
• Develop an organizational system for the student to easily restart work at another time.
• Check for homework completion daily.
• Use another work space to signal independent work, versus whole class lessons.
• Use checklists.
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Environmental
• Use preferential seating to avoid distractions.
• Use a visual timer.
• Provide an alternative work space.
Assessment
• Use oral and visual prompts to begin tests.
• Use a visual timer.
• Provide an alternate location for tests to avoid distractions.
• Provide organizers for assignments.
• Chunk assignments with timelines, and give feedback frequently.
Resources
