Working Memory: Definition, Symptoms, Impact on Academics, Solutions, and Freebie

Posted by Erica Warren on Jul 04, 2021

Do you have students that continually forget to bring a pencil to class, misplace their homework, blurt out irrelevant comments, and struggle following multi-step directions? These difficulties can all be traced to working memory mishaps.

What is Working Memory?

Working memory is a cognitive functioning that enables students to remember and use relevant information to complete an activity. It also enables learners to hold multiple pieces of information in the mind and manipulate them. It is often described as a mental workspace that helps students stay focused, block distractions and stay abreast of their surroundings.

How Does a Weak Working Memory Impact Students?

Working memory difficulties will impact the following:

Reading comprehension
Mental math
Understanding social interactions
Completing homework
Planning and preparing for activities
Solving multi-step directions
Writing essays and reports
Following a conversation
Test preparation
Turning in homework
Following and participating in group discussions

What are Some Key Symptoms of Working Memory Difficulties?

Trouble comprehending a story
Difficulties memorizing math facts
Problems making and keeping friends
Requires many prompts to complete homework
Forgets needed materials at home and at school
Fails to follow all the directions and work is often incomplete
Struggles with organizing ideas before writing and the finished product is often incomplete and messy
Makes irrelevant comments and changes the topic of discussion
Difficulties maintaining focus
Misplaces things like pencils, notebooks, and homework
Leaving studying for tests to the last minute

How Can Students Improve Working Memory?

Providing fun and engaging activities that require attention, mental manipulation, and following directions such as Red Light, Green Light, memory games and treasure hunts can help. However, ready-made activities that develop working memory activities can save preparation time. Come get some FREE SAMPLE ACTIVITIES.

I hope you found this post helpful. If you have any questions or thoughts, please leave a comment.

Cheers, Dr. Erica Warren

Dr. Erica Warren is the author, illustrator, and publisher of multisensory educational materials at Good Sensory Learning. She is also the director of Learning to Learn and Learning Specialist Courses.