Strategic Rx for Classroom Difficulties: Matching Prescription with the Problem

David P. Sylvestro
Eagle Hill School

Also available: handout


Explanation of how to make deductions on etiology of academic, social, or behavior problems and selection of action plans to help. How do we help students develop self-control?
Sylvestro made the point to ask each child what is going on. Ask the child to be reflective about a situation.Sylvestro pointed out that we have to look at who our students are and assess where they are before we can move them where we want them to go.
When assessing be sure that all the sensory processes and speech and language needs for learning are in place. Assess cognitive areas. Then assess academic ability. Finally check their intrapersonal (emotional state), and interpersonal (socialization) levels.
Always have a success orientation with students. That is, be sure that student can meet success to start and feel positive about what is happening.

Impact:
Some interesting information was shared. None of it seemed particularly new. It brought back the need to speak with previous years teachers. Find out what worked, what did not, where student did well, and excelled.