OK. You’re in the middle of a lesson, students are diligently working, and then… a hand shoots up. “I’m done!” Then another. And another. While it’s fantastic that some students grasp concepts quickly, managing fast finishers can sometimes feel like another task on an already overflowing to-do list. But, there is good news! Keeping these students engaged doesn’t have to mean more work for you. Here are some tried-and-true “hacks” to keep those fast finishers learning and growing independently.
The Goal: Keep Fast Finishers Engaged With Minimal Prep
Before we dive into specific ideas, remember the main objectives:
- Keep students learning: The activities should reinforce or extend skills. It’s not just about keeping them occupied.
- Minimise teacher workload: These shouldn’t require extensive preparation or grading.
- Foster independence: Encourage students to take initiative and manage their time.
Here are some strategies you can implement. Naturally, keep in mind different resource availability for your classroom.
Low-Tech & No-Prep Powerhouses
These ideas rely on readily available classroom materials or simply the students’ own creativity.
Independent Reading & Reflection Hack
Have a designated Book Nook / Class Library with a variety of reading materials (fiction, non-fiction, magazines, even maths puzzle books). Fast finishers grab a book and read. To add a layer of engagement, provide simple reflection prompts they can jot down in a notebook. For example:
English: “What was the main idea of what you read?”, “What new vocabulary did you encounter?”, “How does this relate to something else we’ve learned?”
Maths: “What problem-solving strategies did the characters use (if applicable)?”, “Can you connect this to a real-world situation?”, “What questions do you still have about this topic?”
Prep Level: Minimal. Set up the book nook and provide a list of prompts.
Creative Writing/Storytelling Hack (English Focus):
Provide open-ended writing prompts or story starters on index cards in a designated container. Fast finishers choose a prompt and let their imaginations run wild. They can write in a journal or on loose paper.
Prep Level: Low. Create a new collection of prompts periodically.
Maths Challenges & Puzzles Hack (Maths Focus):
Keep a collection of age-appropriate logic puzzles, Sudoku, KenKen, Mashup Maths, or even previously learned maths problems presented in a new way. Students can select a challenge to work on.
Prep Level: Low. Gather puzzles from online resources like Twinkl or old worksheets.
“Think Tank” Extension Questions Hack (Applicable to both Maths & English):
Have a list of challenging, open-ended questions related to the current topic. Fast finishers can select a question to ponder and write down their thoughts. These aren’t necessarily about finding a right answer, but about exploring the concept in more depth.
English Example: “If the main character made a different choice, how might the story have ended?”
Maths Example: “Can you think of another way to solve this problem? Is it more or less efficient?”
Prep Level: Medium. Create thoughtful extension questions for each unit.
Vocabulary Explorers Hack (English Focus):
When students encounter new vocabulary, fast finishers can choose a word to explore further. They can look up its definition, find synonyms and antonyms, use it in a new sentence, or even draw a picture representing its meaning.
Prep Level: Minimal. Provide access to dictionaries or online resources if available.
Tech-Integrated Options (If Devices are Available)
If your classroom has access to tablets or computers, these options can be an engaging option.
Educational Apps & Websites (Applicable to both Maths & English):
Curate a list of approved educational apps and websites that reinforce maths and English skills. Fast finishers can choose an activity to work on independently. Many platforms offer self-paced learning and track progress.
Prep Level: Medium. Research and select appropriate maths and English apps and websites, setting up student accounts if needed.
Digital Creation Tools (Applicable to both Math & English):
Allow students to use digital tools for creative expression related to the current topic. This could include creating digital stories, designing presentations, making concept maps, or even coding simple maths games.
Prep Level: Medium. Introduce students to the tools and provide occasional prompts.
Implementation Tips for Success
- Establish Clear Expectations: Explain to students what the fast finisher options are and when they are allowed to access them. Remind student who access technology to stay on task. No watching Mr Beast videos (there are plenty of other great YouTube channels for students.)
- Model and Practice: Show students how to use the different resources and activities. Practice transitioning to these tasks smoothly.
- Make it Accessible: Ensure materials are readily available and easy for students to find.
- Encourage Choice: Allowing students to choose their activity increases engagement and ownership.
- Keep it Fresh: Rotate activities periodically to maintain interest.
- Remember, No Extra Grading! The focus is on engagement and independent learning. You don’t need to collect and grade everything your students touch. Observe student engagement and occasionally have informal check-ins.
Fast finisher hacks help keep all your students learning and engaged, even after they’ve completed their main tasks. Best of all, they don’t add extra work to your already busy schedule.
