Let's say your child has a book report to do. On the continuum from competence to quality, your child may already be at the point of competence. He knows when the report is due and has already started reading the book. He not only understands the requirements, but he also enjoys English Class and believes that he can do a great book report if he puts his mind to do it. You remind him to make a list of the teacher's expectations to keep at his side as he works so he can n=know what is expected.
He finishes the report four days before it due and intends to hand it in early. You ask him to share his report with you and explain why he deserve an A, knowing he has come far this year in his abilities, but fearing he may be becoming lazy. You sit down together and your son goes through the report, grading himself on the expectations his teacher put forth. You remind him that in order to improve, he will likely have to fulfill the requirements even better to receive an A. You think that a B would probably be assigned for his assignment if he only did what was expected so you encourage him to do a little more.
Here is where the problems can arise. When teachers accept competent work as A work, your child may not agree that his paper is only worth a B. After all, the teacher's says it's worth an A. While his teacher may accept it, you can still help build the missing inspiration and lead him toward self-improvement. Remind him that when he enters the world of work and romantic relationships, he will want to be noticed as one who goes above and beyond. Turn this situation into an opportunity by showing the successful results that his high expectations can bring both now and later in life.
Guide your child's understanding of quality by asking the following question: If your child could turn in a little longer report, could he improve on his teacher's expectations?
Examples
If the teacher expects him to write a two pages report, to include supporting characters listed, describe in three paragraphs etc, he can improve by writing around 2.5 pages, supporting characters listed and described, and write addition one to two paragraph more, etc.
When your child works hard to improve the report, he is able to earn an A he can be proud of. Remember the previous post: Competency plus Improvement equals quality.
adapted from
By Vicki Caruana Giving Your Child the Excellence Edge: 10 Traits Your Child Needs to Achieve Lifelong Success (Focus (1St Edition)
