Large projects can be overwhelming. They take time. They require lots of steps. And they can have many—sometimes too many decisions required. Try some of these tips to help with a project you have to complete this semester.
Start Early!
Large projects can NOT be completed in a week and certainly not in one night!
On nights that you don’t have a lot of other homework you can start thinking about what you would like to do.
Make an Outline
Break the project into 5–10 smaller steps. The more you can break the assignment down, the less overwhelmed you will be.
Making a Timeline for Getting the Project Done
A timeline is a great idea if you have trouble completing projects on time
By checking in with your timeline you will be able to see the progress you are making
Also, a timeline will help make sure that you have time to proofread for mistakes and make any changes before it’s due
Ask a Parent or Teacher for Feedback about Your Plan
Even the best ideas need some fine-tuning. Run your plan by a parent or a teacher to see if you are on the right track. If they recommend changes or even if they think you did well, listen carefully to what they have to say as you might think of something else that needs to be included
It’s also a good idea to have a parent or teacher proofread your paper before you turn it in
Watch Devin talk about making and keeping a plan.
Example: Biology Project
Assignment:
For biology class you have to write a report and give an oral presentation to the class on an endangered species.
Start Early, and Get the Facts Straight:
When is the assignment due?
What length should the report and presentation be?
Do you know what is expected of you?
Start thinking about possible endangered species to use. Do any really interest you?
Make an Outline:
Make an outline of facts you would like to include in your report and presentation. This should probably include habitat, diet and other facts
Once you have a general idea what to include, run it by a parent or your teacher—are you on the right track?
Steps and Timeline:
You will write a report AND deliver an oral presentation. You need time to:
Set up your project
Research your species
Write and edit the report
Develop the presentation and visual aids (for example, a map showing where the animal lives)
