Independant Study

If you want to embark on an Independent Study of any description, you first have to persuade your teacher that this is a good idea. Depending on the teacher’s personality, this may require a variety of tactics. However, there are a few universal guidelines.

Under no circumstances should you say that you are bored. Nor should you make any negative comments regarding the coursework or your classmates. Presenting yourself as positive as possible is your best chance at being allowed to take control of your own education. Remember, this is not a get out of jail free card (no matter how much it may feel like one), this is an enrichment opportunity.

The more teachers feel like they are a part of the process, the more likely they are to be receptive of the idea. Discuss all the different possibilities with them, not only the one that you would prefer. They may have insight into the course structure that would make one method of Independent Study ideal, and another impossible.

Here’s an example of an opening line that has afforded great success in the past.

“Hi, Mrs. ______? I’m very interested in ________, and if you’re not too busy, I was wondering if I could talk to you about some enrichment opportunities.”

If you are identified as gifted, this is where it’s really handy. The teacher will likely be aware of your status, and will uphold specifications made in your IEP on your request.