Independent Practice

Independent practice is a key phase in the learning process where students apply new skills and knowledge on their own. In middle and high school classrooms, this stage helps students solidify their understanding, build confidence, and develop the self-management skills needed for academic success. Done well, independent practice not only reinforces learning but also fosters autonomy, persistence, and problem-solving.

Why Independent Practice Matters

Young adolescents and teens are at a developmental stage where they are learning to take ownership of their work and manage their time effectively. Independent practice:

• Strengthens memory and retention by requiring students to recall and apply what they’ve learned
• Encourages self-reliance while still allowing for teacher guidance and feedback
• Prepares students for higher-level academic work, postsecondary learning, and workplace expectations

Setting Students Up for Success

Because this kind of practice requires students to have a firm grasp of the routines and procedures of the classroom and an understanding of the concepts they were just taught, it is most effective when preceded by active teaching and opportunities for student practice. Before releasing students to work on their own:

• Teach and model the task – Clearly explain the purpose and desired outcome, then demonstrate the process or behavior
• Collaborate and clarify – Allow students to ask questions and, when appropriate, practice in pairs or small groups before working alone
• Check for understanding – Use quick formative checks—such as a thumbs-up, exit slip, or short verbal summary—to confirm readiness

Creating a Focused Environment

To make the most of independent practice time:

• Establish and reinforce norms for voice level, movement, and accessing materials
• Provide structures for self-monitoring, such as checklists or progress trackers
• Ensure that students know how and when to seek help without disrupting others

Example in Action

In a middle school history class, students have just learned how to analyze primary sources. Before assigning an independent analysis, the teacher models the process with one document, then has students work with a partner to analyze another. Once students demonstrate understanding, they move on to analyzing a third document independently. As they work, the teacher checks in, noting strong use of evidence and offering prompts to deepen analysis. The class ends with a quick reflection where students write down one challenge they faced and how they overcame it.

Learn More

For more on independent practice and how it fits into an engaging lesson for middle and high school students:

• Building an Academic Community
• Empowering Educators: A Comprehensive Guide to Teaching Grades 6, 7, 8