Backward chaining
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Backward chaining teaches a multi-step task starting with the last step, so the student finishes the routine from the very first lesson.
Topic: Measurement and data collection
In plain terms
The adult does or prompts all steps except the last one, which the student does independently. Once the last step is mastered, the student does the last two, and so on, working back toward the first step. Because the student always completes the task, the natural reward of finishing comes right after the student's own work.
How it shows up in an IEP
Backward chaining is common for dressing, toileting, hygiene and job tasks. Data is recorded on a task analysis sheet, and objectives can be written as the number of steps, counted from the end, completed independently.
Example
To teach putting on a jacket, an adult helps with everything until the zipper is started, and the student pulls the zipper up. Next, the student also connects the zipper.
Related terms
- Forward chainingForward chaining teaches the steps of a task analysis in order, starting with the first step, while an adult completes or supports the rest.
- Task analysisA task analysis breaks a complex skill into a sequence of smaller, teachable steps that can be taught and tracked one at a time.
- Prompt fadingPrompt fading is the planned, gradual reduction of help so that a student performs a skill independently and does not come to depend on adult prompts.
- ReinforcementReinforcement is any consequence that makes a behavior more likely to happen again, such as praise, a preferred activity or a break.
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