Metacognition Lesson: Executive Functioning Classroom Counseling Lesson
This executive functioning counseling lesson for grades 5–8 teaches students what metacognition is and how to use questioning strategies to improve learning and problem-solving. Students will practice applying metacognitive strategies through engaging activities they can use at school and at home. This lesson is part of a 20-lesson Executive Functioning Curriculum but can also be used on its own.
Metacognition Strategies: Executive Functioning Counseling Lesson Plan for Grades 5–8: Help students build awareness of their own thinking with this executive functioning counseling lesson on metacognition. Designed for upper elementary and middle school students, this lesson introduces metacognition as “thinking about thinking” and provides students with practical questioning strategies they can use to plan, monitor, and reflect on their learning. Through interactive activities, students will practice applying metacognitive strategies that strengthen problem-solving, academic performance, and self-awareness.
What’s Included:
- Scripted, detailed lesson plan (black & white printable)
- Slides for instruction and activities (PowerPoint file, compatible with Google Slides; not editable)
- Pre- and post-test to track student growth
- Skills visuals for reinforcement (black & white and color versions)
- Handouts for student practice activities (black & white printable)
Key Features:
- Designed for grades 5–8
- About 50 minutes of instruction and activities
- Adaptable for classroom SEL lessons, small group counseling, or one-on-one student support
- Minimal prep required—no extra materials needed
- Compatible with both PowerPoint and Google Slides
FAQs:
Q: Do I need extra materials?
A: No. Everything you need is included in this resource.
Q: How long will this lesson take?
A: Approximately 50 minutes, though timing may vary by student needs.
Q: Can this be used in small groups or with individual students?
A: Yes. The lesson works across different settings.
Q: Can I open this lesson in Google Slides?
A: Yes. Upload the PowerPoint file to your Google Drive to access it in Google Slides.
This Metacognition Executive Function Lesson provides students with the tools to think critically about their own thinking, improve self-reflection, and strengthen learning strategies. Perfect for school counselors, teachers, and intervention specialists, this resource makes it easy to explicitly teach and reinforce metacognition as part of executive functioning instruction.
Get the full curriculum here!
Please Note: this is a digitally downloadable resource. You will not receive anything in the mail.