Beginner training plan
Your first lessonThe first lesson is less about covering a lot of content and more about building comfort, confidence, and understanding the student’s starting point.
My approach:
1. Build rapport
* Introduce yourself and learn about the student’s interests, strengths, and goals.
* Create a positive, low-pressure environment.
2. Assess prior knowledge
* Ask questions or provide simple tasks to determine what the student already knows.
* Identify strengths, areas of need, and preferred learning styles.
3. Establish expectations and routines
* Explain how lessons will be structured.
* Review materials, supports, and expectations in a clear and simple way.
4. Teach a small, manageable skill
* Introduce one concept at a time.
* Use modeling, visual supports, guided practice, and examples.
* Focus on early success rather than mastery.
5. Provide support and feedback
* Offer prompts and guidance as needed.
* Use positive reinforcement frequently to build confidence.
6. Check for understanding
* Have the student demonstrate the skill independently or explain it in their own words.
* Adjust instruction based on their responses.
7. End with success
* Review what was learned.
* Celebrate effort and progress.
* Preview what will come next.
Lesson 2-3Lesson 2–3, the focus typically shifts from getting to know the student to establishing routines and building foundational skills.
Lesson 2
Goal: Reinforce the first skill and increase student participation.
* Briefly review what was learned in Lesson 1.
* Check for retention and understanding.
* Continue modeling, but encourage the student to do more of the work independently.
* Introduce a related skill or a small extension of the original concept.
* Use guided notes, visuals, examples, and frequent feedback.
* Identify any misconceptions early and reteach as needed.
Lesson 3
Goal: Increase independence and confidence.
* Begin with a quick review or warm-up.
* Have the student demonstrate the previously learned skill with less support.
* Introduce another connected skill or apply the skill in a new context.
* Continue providing accommodations and supports, but gradually fade prompts when appropriate.
* Encourage self-monitoring and problem-solving.
* End with reflection on progress and next steps.
