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Trying a New Approach

META
Learning to Learn›Learning to Learn|Ages 7—8|ID: mt_95zxYqpP7m

When your first approach isn't working, try a different one — being flexible about strategies is part of being a good learner

Mastery Evidence

  • When stuck on a problem, try a completely different approach rather than repeating the same method — e.g. drawing a picture instead of writing equations
  • Describe a time they changed strategy mid-task and explain why the new approach worked better
  • Accept that their first idea might not work and show willingness to start over with a fresh plan

Assessment Prompt

“If [child] tries one way to solve a problem and it isn't working, do they try a different approach rather than just repeating the same thing?”

Prerequisites2

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  • Feeling of not understanding hard

    Strategy switching is triggered by noticing the current approach isn't working — requires comprehension monitoring

    • Asking for Help hard

      Noticing confusion and acting on it requires already knowing that asking for help is a valid response to being stuck

  • Planning a Task hard

    Switching strategy requires first having made a plan — you can only switch away from something you chose deliberately

    • Checking Your Own Work hard

      Planning before a task grows from the habit of checking back after finishing — both are self-regulatory bookends

Unlocks3