In this case, teachers use a study guide with an independent study agreement, illustrated on the reverse. Provide students with a study guide that contains a list of expected outcomes for a unit, which they may choose to achieve independently. Instead of working with the regular class, these students will research and present information about an alternative topic related to the general theme or unit. Students work on the extended activity in school during the time the class is working with the regular content. Thus, the activity becomes their real work for the class period.
Students sign an agreement similar to the following illustration.
The student must demonstrate mastery at appropriate checkpoints to continue this arrangement for the rest of the unit. The student must participate in selected group activities when one day's notice is given by the teacher. A similar agreement may be used with all independent study activities. The prototype may be used for ideas on what to include, or teachers may use their own ideas. Students rejoin the large group for special experiences in which all students should participate.