Gradients

 

Gradients (from latin "gradus” = a step)

  Gradients are usually not noticeable unless it it too steep to too easy.

  A proper gradient would be one that matched what the student already knew and built upon it. But when you find yourself in either too steep or too shallow a gradient, then...

 

Too Steep - Too much too soon.

Example:  Studying Algebra before studying Basic Math

Fix 1: Get the earlier basic subject and master it first.

Fix 2: Chip away at this subject.  (going back to more basic subject is better)

1. Back off.

2. Ask yourself “what part of that do I get”. Repeat. “What other part of that do I get.” Repeat….

3. How do the parts I understand go together?

4. Make examples.

5. Return to subject. Compare what you understand with what you don't. Feel good about it.  Then take another step.

 

Too Shallow - 'Yo, I'm bored'

Fix:

1. Check that there isn't anything in it that you DON'T understand. If there is fix that.

2. If you REALLY understand everything and you're free to move up to the next level then do so. If you have to stick with it because 'you're supposed to' then:

  a. engage your 'sticking to it' skill

  b. LOOK for things you could understand better.

  c. expand your viewpoint past being a student and look at the material from the viewpoint of a teacher ..., from the viewpoint of a critic, from the viewpoint of praise. As long as you're here, EXPAND your understanding of it iinstead of wasting time complaining.  Remember, YOU have to control your attention. It belongs to you not the teachers.  Use it. Control it.