Start With a Skills Check, Rather Than an Assumption

[Symphonie]

We’ve all been there, you start teaching a new topic only to realize half the class is lost and the other half is bored. The problem? It’s easy to assume students are beginning from the same place, when in reality, their skills and knowledge levels can vary widely.

A simple solution is to start with a quick skills inventory or diagnostic quiz. Instead of guessing, you get a realistic snapshot of where students are actually starting.

This approach works because it prevents the frustration that comes from teaching at the wrong level by allowing you to tailor support, whether that means grouping students strategically or offering targeted refreshers. Additionally, students gain awareness of their own strengths and gaps, which builds metacognition.

If you’re using Achieve, many courses already include built-in diagnostic quizzes. These can flag gaps in foundational knowledge and point students to just-in-time support. For example, you might direct a student to a short refresher module before diving into more complex material.

Starting with data instead of assumptions helps you meet students where they are and helps them feel seen in the process.

Before your next unit, consider giving a short skills check. You’ll save yourself time reteaching later, and students will be better prepared to move forward with confidence.