[ PRACTICAL SCHOOL GUIDE ]
Designing step-by-step learning skills
Create a reusable skill that supports one teaching routine.
The idea
Create a reusable skill that supports one teaching routine.
Classroom example
A teacher builds a skill that gives one algebra hint, asks the student to try, and reveals a worked step only after another attempt.
Try this next
Use this checklist for designing step-by-step learning skills.
- Choose one learning move
- Write escalation rules
- Test correct, partial, and off-topic answers
Design one step of help
For equation solving, a useful skill asks what operation the student would try next and why. It can offer a simpler example when the learner is stuck. It should not begin by completing the full worksheet.
Try it with your class
- Define the concept the learner should practice.
- Write a hint that leaves a meaningful next step.
- Test a wrong attempt and a request for the final answer.
- Revise instructions that accidentally give away the task.
Review the result
Test a new but related problem after using the skill. The student should be able to choose a first step and explain the reason, not simply repeat a phrase from the chat.