Radio Commentary
One key ingredient to success in
any field is being prepared. Setting goals and working to reach them is a
discipline that assures a measure of success regardless of the task at hand.
Taking young people step-by-step through
a goal-setting process is very helpful.
To start
the process, ask young people to identify one learning goal they have for the
week — like turning in a report on time, reading two chapters, or memorizing a
certain number of vocabulary words.
Have them
write the goal down and keep it where they can see it every day.
Show them
how to break the goal into smaller steps. Using a written report as an example,
they could read two chapters every day, and spend one day writing the report.
Help them identify obstacles to
achieving their goal, like sports practices, music rehearsal, other homework,
or even fatigue. Help them devise ways to overcome those obstacles.
Show them
how to use self-motivation. Ask them to think about how they will benefit
directly when they reach their goal.
Make sure
they check in with you as the week progresses. Identify problems that arise and
talk about solutions.
At the end of the week, have them
evaluate how they did, and use that information to set a new goal for the next
week.
After a few
weeks of using this technique, most students can continue the cycle on their
own, setting goals and working to reach them. It is a very valuable discipline
to master.
