This checklist gives guidelines for you to think about when designing activities. It is not necessary for any one activity to achieve all of these things, but each point is worth considering when designing an activity. The most important principle to remember, though, is that each individual activity needs to be kept focused and simple, so that its purpose is clear.

WHO is the activity for?

• Is the activity at a manageable level for learners in this grade?
• Will the activity be real and interesting to the learners? (This will apply particularly if it is based on things that are part of their experience.

WHY are they doing it?

• What is the purpose of the activity?
• What new information will the children learn?
• What will the children learn to do? For example, will they learn new skills, will they learn new ways of thinking, will they practise working together, etc.?
• Will learners see some purpose in the activity?
• Is it clear to them why it is worthwhile to do the activity?
• Does the activity give them an opportunity to assess what they have done, or to think about what they are learning?

HOW will they do it?

• Are the instructions clear, simple, and well-ordered? (If not, the whole activity could be ineffective!)
• Does the activity require learners to work together meaningfully? Collaborating with others is a valuable way of learning, although obviously some activities will be designed for individuals.)

WILL they really do it, and want to do more?

• Have you used exciting/interesting material to stimulate learners (for example, pictures, sounds, objects, articles, etc)?
• Does the activity come from somewhere and go somewhere?
• Does it lead them into the next activity or topic?
• Does it provide the right level of challenge? (This can be tricky because, if activities are too difficult too soon, some learners will lose confidence. It is useful to vary the level of challenge. Some activities can be easier than others, so it is often useful to add optional challenges for learners who complete these activities quickly.)
• Does the activity provide feedback which will help to motivate learners and build their confidence?
• Have you encouraged learners to express their own ideas, and think about their own opinions? (This makes them feel valued and encourages critical thinking)