How fast should I say the words before the student is ready for the next list?
Using a metronome, I go to the next list if they are 80% accurate or better at a rate of 140 beats per minute (BPM). Each syllable receives one beat. It is not unusual for the student to be saying the words at a maximum rate of 100 BPM at first and then gradually build up to 140 BPM. (A word of caution: If one goes through the program practicing at too slow a rate, transfer probably will not occur). What if my student cannot stay with the beat of the metronome? I have used different techniques to get my students to understand this concept. Often when I start, I point to myself and say the word then point to the student and say it again. Then we do it together and finally the student does it by himself or herself. One of my students, an African-American girl had great difficulty until I held her hands and moved with the beat then squeezed gently every time she was supposed to say the word. What kind of feedback do I give the student? This can vary but it is essential to let the student
