How to Teach Executive Functioning to Struggling Students

Many teachers are miffed when apparently simple tasks, such as using an agenda or turning in an assignment, are difficult for their students. Many of my own students have shared that some teachers impose very strict rules and regulations about both recording assignments and due dates. In fact, I have witnessed policies that are so rigid, a zero is imposed if an assignment is even a minute late.

Don't Punish - Instruct

Unfortunately, harsh punishments do not provide the attention and instruction that these students need to develop this skill. Instead, penalties and labels such as careless, lazy, and unmotivated can simply place these frustrated learners in a state of learned helplessness.  Instead, these students need structured routines, comprehensive instruction, and a scaffolding approach to planning, managing time, and organizing.

How Hard Can it Really Be to Plan, Manage Time, and Organize?

I have to admit, when I first started working with students who struggled with executive functioning, I was perplexed about how challenging planning, time management, and organization could be. What seemed to be clear to me seemed obscure, taxing, and problematic for them.  However, research now suggests that executive functioning, which encompasses these skills, can be a cognitive-based weakness.  In fact, it is the last part of the brain to fully develop, and full maturation is not reached until students reach their early 20s.

So, How Can You Teach Executive Functioning to Struggling Students?

1. First, you need to recognize the signs and symptoms and provide an executive functioning screener. 
2. Second, you need to learn more about executive functioning and how to teach this skill. 
3. Third, you need online resources and handouts that help students plan their time and materials.
4. Fourth, you need to monitor and help your students record assignments, create deadlines, and turn in homework.
5. Fifth, you need to create a safe learning environment where students feel comfortable asking for help.

So, What are the Common Signs and Symptoms of Executive Functioning Problems?

There are a number of common signs and symptoms associated with students who struggle with executive functioning weaknesses. They often:

1. misplace or lose materials.
2. fail to turn in assignments.
3. leave things to the last minute.
4. underestimate the amount of time it will take to complete a task.
5. fail to record homework in an agenda or planner.
6. forget the needed materials.
7. forgo test preparation
8. resist planning, and breaking down long-term assignments into manageable tasks or goals.
9. neglect to prepare for midterms or finals.
10. forget important details.
11. lose focus and miss important notes or directions.
12. lose mental stamina and fail to complete a task.
13. rush through work.

So, What are Some Specific Strategies?

1. Generate a structured daily routine.
2. Set priorities and make to-do checklists.
3. Create a homework plan. 
4. Teach study skills and test-taking strategies.
5. Illustrate note-taking skills.
6. Demonstrate time management skills by breaking large assignments into manageable chunks with numerous deadlines.
7. Teach memory strategies.
8. Help student motivation by offering incentives and positive reinforcement. 
9. Create and use graphic organizers for writing.
10. Teach metacognitive skills by thinking through processes aloud. 

Where Can I Get Ready-Made Materials?