Each pupil is different in terms of learning ability, academic standards, classroom learning and academic performance and each has his own in learning.

Remedial instruction can help struggling learners shore up their basic skills. This extra support can help them catch up to their peers.

Remediation teachers play an important role in a school. While they often get the benefit of working with students one-on-one or in small groups, they have a lot of work to do. Even though a remediation teacher’s goal is to help students get back on track and build essential skills, not all students welcome their help, making the job even more challenging.

Before a remediation teacher can effectively work with students, she must determine what the students need. A remediation teacher is responsible for using multiple diagnostic tools to determine student needs. These tools include online and paper-based tests designed to test basic skills. The teacher also observes students as they work to identify areas of confusion. The results will help a remediation teacher to select appropriate materials and exercises to help students to learn.

Remedial programs are designed to close the gap between what a student knows and what he’s expected to know. They often target reading or math skills. In many cases, students are removed from their regular classroom and taught in another setting.

When evaluating remedial programs, be aware that not all programs are effective. Solid remedial programs:

• Are research-based, using proven teaching methods
• Teach step-by-step without skipping over content
• Are conducted at the student’s pace
• Offer regular reviews and practice exercises to reinforce learning and practice applying new knowledge
• Include a way to assess what the student has learned and whether he’s ready to move ahead

For best results, avoid remedial programs that teach your child the material in the same way he was taught the first time around. That will likely just frustrate him. Also avoid programs that allow too many kids in the group. The idea is for your child to get more individual attention than is possible in a large class.

By: Ms. Mary Grace G. Legaspi | Teacher III | Tipo Elementary School | Hermosa, Bataan