Planning Lesson: Executive Functioning Classroom Counseling Lesson
This executive functioning counseling lesson for grades 5–8 teaches students what planning is and how to use practical strategies at school and at home. Students will practice planning a variety of real-life tasks using interactive activities and planning tools. This lesson is part of a 20-lesson Executive Functioning Curriculum but can also be used on its own.
Planning Strategies: Executive Functioning Counseling Lesson Plan for Grades 5–8: Teach students how to strengthen their planning skills with this ready-to-use executive functioning lesson plan. Designed for upper elementary and middle school students, this lesson helps students understand what planning is, why it matters, and how they can use strategies to stay organized and prepared for schoolwork and everyday tasks. Through guided instruction and interactive activities, students will practice planning out assignments, projects, and real-world situations using tools they can carry into their daily lives.
What’s Included:
- Scripted, detailed lesson plan (black & white printable)
- Slides for instruction and student activities (PowerPoint file, compatible with Google Slides; not editable)
- Pre- and post-test to track student growth
- Skills visuals to reinforce planning strategies (black & white and color versions)
- Handouts with student planning tools (black & white printable)
- Student challenge cards for independent or group practice (black & white printable)
Key Features:
- Designed for grades 5–8
- Approximately 50 minutes of instruction and activities
- Flexible use: classroom SEL lesson, small groups, or individual counseling
- Minimal prep required—no additional materials needed
- Easy to use in 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 does the lesson take?
A: About 50 minutes, though timing may vary depending on student needs.
Q: Can I use this with small groups or individual students?
A: Yes. The lesson is adaptable for a variety of settings.
Q: Can I open this in Google Slides?
A: Yes. Upload the PowerPoint file into Google Drive to access it in Google Slides.
This Planning Strategies Executive Function Lesson provides students with the tools they need to plan ahead, manage school tasks, and approach responsibilities with confidence. Perfect for school counselors, teachers, and intervention specialists, this resource makes it easy to explicitly teach and reinforce planning skills as part of your executive functioning instruction.
Get the full curriculum here!
Please Note: this is a digitally downloadable resource. You will not receive anything in the mail.