Directions on Worksheets - Is it a requirement that teachers put directions on the top of worksheets in addition to the worksheet containing the task? RESPONSE: There is not a requirement that directions be included on student work products. As outlined in the Administration guidelines if a preprinted worksheet contains preprinted directions, it is important for the teacher to be aware of what the directions are “telling” the student to do and to modify the directions prior to giving the student the worksheet or possibly cross-out, correct, and initial directions that were not used with the correction being the directions that were used with the student or including a notation about how/if the directions on the worksheet were used with the student.
There are conflicting opinions that it may be "safer" not to put directions on top for the student to read, as there could be a problem with linkage to the task if they are not worded correctly. On the hand, for students who can read, it enhances instruction for the student to read and then follow the directions on the top of the page.
The manual does not indicate a requirement for directions to be written on the top of worksheets. In addition, some of the students taking the NYSAA may not be able to read them, therefore they would not serve a purpose for the student in that situation.
Thanks.
