How Can You Scaffold Assignments to Promote Student Engagement All Semester Long?

Assignments don’t have to be overwhelming—for you or your students. When students are left to tackle large, complex tasks all at once, it often leads to last-minute stress, subpar work, and missed learning opportunities. But what if assignments could be broken down into manageable steps that build engagement and encourage continuous improvement? By using scaffolded assignments, creative project options, and growth mindset grading, you can empower students to take ownership of their learning while reducing your grading load.

In this Magna 20-Minute Mentor, Day Halsey, Senior Instructor and Online Programs Operations Coordinator at Colorado State University, shares practical strategies for structuring assignments that guide students through the learning process. You’ll learn how to use checklists, reflection questions, and “choose your own adventure” projects to promote deeper learning and engagement. With clear instructions, timely feedback, and structured opportunities for revision, you’ll foster accountability and set students up for success. Walk away with actionable tools and materials to transform your assignments into meaningful learning experiences that reduce stress and boost outcomes all semester long.

LEARNING GOALS 

After viewing this Magna 20-Minute Mentor, participants will be able to:  

• Identify effective strategies for scaffolding complex assignments 
• Develop clear instructions, checklists, and rubrics to support student success 
• Implement scaffolded term papers to promote writing development and accountability 
• Design open-ended projects that align with learning objectives and encourage creativity 
• Establish growth mindset grading practices with defined timelines and feedback checkpoints 
• Evaluate student progress through structured reflection and feedback integration 

TOPICS COVERED  

• Scaffolded term papers with checklists and reflection prompts 
• “Choose your own adventure” projects for creative learning 
• Detailed rubrics for open-ended projects 
• Growth mindset grading with clear timelines 
• Timely and constructive feedback strategies 
• Structured reflection for student accountability 

AUDIENCE 

This program will benefit: 

• Faculty (full-time and part-time) 
• Instructional designers 
• Teaching and learning center staff 
• Department chairs and program coordinators
• Academic support specialists 
• Graduate teaching assistants 

Product Code: PM25HA