LEVEL 2
ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR TRAINING MODULE
Purpose of Level 2
Level 2 develops a student from a helpful role model into a competent assistant instructor who can:
- Teach white & yellow belt curriculum when assigned
- Support group rotations and Switch Method segments
- Demonstrate clean technique and safe pad holding
- Deliver corrections using CMA-approved communication tools
- Maintain discipline and structure without using authority
Level 2 assistants do not decide what to teach or introduce material — they teach only what the lead instructor assigns.
1. Role & Expectations of a Level 2 Assistant
A Level 2 assistant is:
- A dependable helper who follows instructions immediately
- A developing teacher who can explain and guide basic curriculum
- A positive influence who models CMA etiquette and energy
- A safety-minded assistant who protects spacing, pacing, and partners
- A communicator who motivates students without using authority
They are not:
- In charge of the class
- Deciding curriculum order
- Correcting beyond basic beginner details
- Changing drills or announcing discipline
- Leading warm-ups or cycle to
- pics independently
2. Teaching Authority: What Level 2 CAN Teach
Level 2 assistants may teach any white & yellow belt basics, including:
- Ki Cho Hyung 1–6 & Cho Geup Hyung (assigned portions only)
- Sohn Ppae Gi (Wrist Escapes 1–5)
- Ki Bohn Soo 1–15
- Basic strikes, blocks, stances, and movement
- Beginner breakfalls and rolls (front, back, side)
They may only teach when directed. Examples:
- “Take this group and cover Ki Bohn Soo 1–5.”
- “Walk them through the first half of the form.”
- “Run wrist escapes and correct hands-up posture.”
They may not:
- Teach new material without assignment
- Modify the technique
- Give advanced versions or do throws on students (but they can be thrown by students)
3. Correction Boundaries (Final CMA Version)
What Level 2 CAN Correct
Light, beginner-level details:
- Hands up, lower stance, pivot your foot, look at your target, respond to the teacher, Rechamber
Always using PCP: “Great stance — now try turning your hips more — yes! That’s it!”
What Level 2 CANNOT Correct
- Advanced versions – don’t teach ahead!
- Any technique they cannot demonstrate perfectly
- Corrections for students of higher rank (except basics)
Authority Limits
Level 2 must never:
- Contradict the lead instructor
- Override another assistant
- Change the drill
- Discipline a student beyond simple redirection
- Decide what comes next
4. Teaching Contact Rules (Safety & Professionalism)
Allowed contact
- Light guidance on shoulders, upper arms, elbows
- Light tap on outer leg below knee for stance cues
Not allowed
- Torso or hip adjustments
- Contact from behind
- Grabbing wrists or hands unnecessarily
- Repositioning a student physically
All adjustments should be verbal first, with physical cues only if needed.
5. Teaching Methods: Shadowing vs. Mirroring vs. Repositioning
Shadowing (Primary Level 2 Method)
- Assistant stands beside the student
- Demonstrates technique in the same direction
- Student simply follows the movements
- Best for forms and escapes
Shadowing is the safest and clearest method for Level 2.
Mirroring (Not used at Level 2)
- Demonstrating opposite-side or opposite-direction
- Makes left/right confusing
- Requires advanced awareness
- Saved for Level 3+ instructors
Repositioning (Verbally guided)
Level 2 can guide movement by saying:
- “Turn your body this way”
- “Step to your left”
- “Watch me — same direction”
Never roughly move a student into position physically.
6. Partnering & Pair Management
Level 2 assistants must be able to:
A. Safely pair students by:
- Size
- Rank
- Speed/intensity
- Experience level
B. Fix unsafe pairings immediately
If a pairing looks unsafe, Level 2 may redirect:
“Let me switch your partners — this will help both of you.”
C. Keep partners productive
- Ensure both get equal turns
- Prevent horseplay
- Maintain control without using harsh authority
D. Maintain spacing
- Scan for encroachment
- Move pairs outward
- Mark safe lines or distances
7. Movement Around a Student (Instructional Footwork)
Level 2 assistants must learn how to physically move while teaching:
A. The Triangle Approach
Stand at:
- Demonstration position
- Side observation position
- Feedback position (front, safe distance)
B. Avoid the “back attack” problem
Never correct a student from behind — unsafe and startling.
C. Move with purpose
Every position change should help the student see the motion more clearly.
D. Stay low-distraction
Move smoothly, not suddenly.
8. Teaching Tools Deepened for Level 2
Level 2 should begin mastering:
1. Spotlighting (public praise to reinforce correct technique)
2. Proximity Praise (praising nearby students to shape behavior)
3. Pattern Interrupts (Focus Claps, Eyes on Who?) for control
4. Conductor Theory (constant light coaching during drills)
5. FAST Method (Form → Accuracy → Speed → Timing)
6. Positive Phrasing (what to do, not what not to do)
7. Clear-Cue Teaching:
- “Watch me”
- “Match me”
- “Your turn”
- “Freeze — check hands”
These will be built into quizzes and rubrics.
9. Professional Behaviors Expected at Level 2
- Consistently early for leadership hours
- Maintains perfect CMA etiquette
- Speaks respectfully to staff and parents
- Models listening positions without being told
- No joking or roughhousing in uniform
- Represents CMA well in and out of class
10. Level 2 Teaching Tasks (Required for Certification)
To complete Level 2, a student must:
Teach (with supervision):
- Ki Bohn Soo 1–5 (full explanation)
- First half of Ki Cho Hyung
- One full round of Sohn Ppae Gi
- Run a pairing drill correctly
Assist:
- During warm-ups
- Bag-work rounds
- Light pad drills
Demonstrate:
- Shadow teaching a form
- Teaching wrist escapes slowly
Manage:
- Spacing and partner safety
- Redirecting behavior using positive tools
11. Level 2 Rubric (Instructor Use)
Scored 0–2 in each category
A. Technical Demonstration
- Clean performance of basics
- Slow, accurate explanation
- Safe demonstrations
B. Communication Skills
- PCP corrections
- Positive phrasing
- Loud, clear voice
- Good use of teaching tools
C. Class Management Skills
- Safe partner setup
- Maintains spacing
- Uses Focus Anchors correctly
- Redirects behavior positively
D. Professionalism & Etiquette
- Arrives prepared
- Models perfect protocol
- Respectful toward staff & parents
- No inappropriate contact
Passing: No 0’s in Safety categories, score ≥ 24/32.
12. Level 2 Knowledge Quiz (Sample Items)
- What type of corrections can Level 2 assistants give?
- What is the difference between shadowing and mirroring?
- What parts of the body are safe for light instructional contact?
- What should you do if partners are mismatched in size?
- Can you change the drill if students struggle with it?
- What is the FAST Method?
- What does “Praise → Correct → Praise” look like?
13. Level 2 Teaching Hours Requirement
Level 2 assistants must complete:
- 15–20 leadership/assistant hours
- A minimum of 5 supervised teaching segments
- One instructor evaluation
14. Completion Requirements
To earn Level 2 Certification, students must:
- Pass the Rubric
- Pass the Knowledge Quiz
- Complete all teaching tasks
- Complete all leadership hours
- Demonstrate safe, respectful behavior
- Receive final instructor approval
Let me know when you’re ready to move to Level 3!
Level 2 – Expanded Teaching Modules
A. Expanded Focus Anchor Library
Focus Anchors help maintain discipline and instantly reset class energy in a positive way.
Guidelines:
- Keep anchors STRONG (practice until crisp)
- Vary anchors so they stay fresh
- Use frequently (every 1–2 minutes when needed)
Approved Focus Anchors:
- ChraRyut – “Yes Sir / Yes Ma’am “
- 2 Claps, have a seat – “Yes Sir / Yes Ma’am “
- Eyes on Who? → “Eyes on you, Sir/Ma’am!”
- What’s our goal? → “Black Belt Excellence, Sir/Ma’am!”
- Huddle Up- take a knee! → Students kneel: “Yes Sir/Ma’am!”
- How do we lead? → “By example, Sir/Ma’am!”
- What time is it? → “NOW, Sir/Ma’am!”
- Where are you? → “Here, Sir/Ma’am!”
- We are on a quest… → “To be our best!”
- Are you ready for a challenge? → “Bring it on!”
- Clap Pattern: clap–clap–clap/clap/clap → students repeat
- If you can hear my voice… clap twice!
- If you can see my eyes… point at them!
Level 2 assistants should be able to use three confidently.
B. Instructor Pledge – Behavioral Standard
Level 2 assistants must memorize and demonstrate this mindset:
“I will teach this class because it’s the most important class I will ever teach. I am patient and enthusiastic. I lead by example.”
Interpretation:
- Every class may determine whether a student stays or quits.
- Enthusiasm is contagious; if you don’t feel it, act it until you feel it.
- You must model what you teach.
Level 2 assistants will be required to recite this pledge during evaluation.
C. Switch Method: Timing & One-Minute Strategies
When rotating groups, assistants must respond to the timekeeper’s signals.
If you hear “One Minute!”:
- Do NOT start a long drill.
- Choose a short finisher:
- 30-second stance hold
- 3–5 perfect pushups/squats
- Quick review of attention stance
- Review 1–2 focus anchors
- Compliment group’s progress
- Pre-frame the next instructor (“Get ready, Master Sarah has an awesome drill for you next!”)
- 30-second stance hold
This ensures smooth transitions and strong pacing.
D. 1-on-1 Warm-Up Tutoring System
During warm-ups, Level 2 assistants may:
- Walk the mat
- Pull 1 student at a time for 1–2 minute check-in
- Give a single correction
- Return them to the group
Every student should receive at least one micro-coaching moment each week.
E. Prep Zone Basics for Level 2
Prep Zone = 5 minutes before class.
Level 2 may run parts of Prep Zone:
- Welcome students warmly
- Ask about school/day
- Review school rules
- Hype them up for class
- Teach 1 focus anchor
F. Class Opening Expectations
Level 2 must support:
- Calling students by name into lines
- High-five and energy-building cues
- Strong Yes Sir/Ma’am responses
- High-energy bow-in
- Resetting sloppy lines discreetly
G. Warm-Up Standards
Warm-up must be:
- High energy
- Familiar and predictable
- Safe and progressive (light → mobility → technique)
Level 2 roles:
- Demonstrate movements
- Encourage loudly
- Fix sloppy posture
- Keep pace consistent
H. Demonstrate–Detail–Drill (3D Method)
Level 2 must master the 3-step method:
1. Demonstrate
- High energy
- Full speed at least once
- Two angles
2. Detail
- Slow breakdown
- Simple explanation
- Rank-appropriate
3. Drill
- Students practice
- Level 2 circulates with PCP, proximity praise, spotlighting
I. Huddle Discussions – Level 2 Rules
Level 2 may deliver a short huddle under supervision.
Rules:
- Keep it short (30–45 sec)
- Animated voice & gestures
- Engage students with 1–2 questions
- End with action: “Show me focus!”
J. Junior vs Adult Teaching Reminders
For juniors:
- Frequent sincere praise
- High energy
- No sarcasm
- Clear expectations
- Never say anything you wouldn’t say with a parent watching
For adults:
- Provide specific technical feedback
- Use respectful tone
- Avoid talking down
- Connect personally (without being personal)
K. Parent Communication — GSIR (Required Skill)
Level 2 must be able to approach a parent after class.
4-Step GSIR:
- Greet: “Good evening Mrs. Smith…”
- General Praise: “Aiden worked hard today.”
- Specific Praise: “His guarding stance was stronger than ever.”
- Improvement: “Help us remind him to keep his hands high.”
Close: “We look forward to seeing you next class!”
L. 3×3 Rule (Required for All Assistants)
Every class, Level 2 must connect with each student at least three times using:
- Eye contact
- Student’s name
- Appropriate contact (high-five, fist bump, tap on shoulder)
This builds rapport and retention.
M. The Conductor Effect (Level 2 Teaching Tool)
When students drill:
- Keep talking
- Provide constant small cues
- Move around the whole mat
- Ensure no “dead air” in your coaching
This creates the feeling of a private lesson inside a group class.
N. Disguising Repetition (Beginner Level)
Level 2 must know at least 5 ways to disguise repetition:
- Change direction
- Switch partners
- Add a target
- Use a stance challenge
- Run relay format
- Add timing cues (“Fast!” “Slow!” “Freeze!”)
O. Beginner Huddle Placement (Parent-Facing)
Level 2 must understand:
- Huddle close, facing parents
- Use loud, articulate speech
- Demonstrate 1 life-skill connection
Parents hearing the message increases retention.
P. Influence vs Authority (Expanded)
Influence = students want to do well.
Authority = students comply because they must.
Level 2 must:
- Build rapport
- Use positive phrasing
- Praise effort
- Save authority for safety moments only
Q. The 15-Second Rule
Level 2 may not “camp out” in one spot.
Every 15 seconds:
- Move to a new student
- Give praise or correction
- Scan spacing
R. Crowd Control Duties
If a student is off-task:
- Approach calmly
- Redirect with positive phrasing
- Keep class flowing
- Do NOT interrupt lead instructor
S. The ELM Tree of Mastery (Positive Coaching Alliance)
Teach students that success =
- Effort (always try your best)
- Learning (learn something every class)
- Mistakes (mistakes are how we learn)
Level 2 should reinforce these during huddles.
T. First Impression Protocol (3-Foot Rule)
Level 2 must greet people within 3 feet:
- Smile
- Eye contact
- “Good evening, welcome in!”
This signals professionalism and warmth.
U. Spotlighting Module (Full Version)
Level 2 should know how to:
- Stop class with a Focus Anchor
- Highlight a student doing excellent work
- Praise them specifically
- Challenge class to match their example
- Return to drill quickly
V. Smiling, Sweating, Learning (SSL Theory)
Every class should include:
- Smiling → Fun & engagement
- Sweating → Fitness & effort
- Learning → Technical growth
Level 2 must support all three pillars.
Next Step:
I can keep adding modules OR convert these into Level 2 quizzes, checklists, and rubrics.
Would you like:
- More modules,
- Turn these into a structured Level 2 online course, or
- Move on to Level 3 now?
Level 2 — Complete Skill Checklist (Student Edition)
Level 2 assistants must demonstrate every skill below with consistency, safety, and CMA professionalism. This checklist is used for evaluation and certification.
Core Teaching Skills
- Can shadow-demonstrate all white/yellow belt basics
- Teaches only when assigned by lead instructor
- Uses PCP (Praise → Correct → Praise) correctly
- Gives light, beginner-level corrections only
- Uses approved Focus Anchors
- Uses Spotlighting appropriately
- Uses Positive Phrasing
- Applies the FAST Method (Form → Accuracy → Speed → Timing)
- Moves smoothly around students (Triangle Method)
- Maintains 15-second rotation rule
- Demonstrates Conductor Theory (constant small cues)
Safety & Contact Skills
- Maintains safe spacing in all partner drills
- Sets partners by size, rank, control level
- Corrects unsafe pairings immediately
- Uses only approved contact zones (shoulders, arms, below knee)
- Never adjusts hips/torso or corrects from behind
- Demonstrates all techniques SLOWLY when teaching
- Does not teach material they cannot perform cleanly
Curriculum Skills (Required)
- Ki Cho Hyung 1–10 (assigned sections only)
- Sohn Ppae Gi (1–5)
- Ki Bohn Soo (1–15)
- Basic strikes, blocks, stances
- Beginner breakfalls/rolls (verbal coaching only)
- Can explain white/yellow curriculum clearly
Class Management & Leadership Skills
- Runs small groups confidently when assigned
- Sets up partners safely and logically
- Manages spacing without disrupting class
- Redirects behavior with positive phrasing
- Handles minor discipline issues appropriately
- Participates in 1-on-1 micro-coaching during warm-up
- Supports Prep Zone and Class Opening
- Encourages students with high energy and professionalism
Professional Behaviors
- Arrives early for leadership hours
- Models CMA etiquette perfectly
- No roughhousing, sarcasm, or negative tone
- Treats all students and parents respectfully
- Uses first impression protocol (3-foot rule)
- Keeps uniform clean and neat
- Represents CMA well inside/outside class
Completion Requirements
To earn Level 2 certification, a student must:
- Pass the Level 2 Rubric
- Pass the Knowledge Quiz
- Complete 15–20 leadership hours
- Complete at least 5 supervised teaching segments
- Demonstrate all checklist skills above
- Receive final instructor approval