Working Memory: Executive Functioning Classroom Counseling Lesson
This executive functioning counseling lesson for grades 5–8 teaches students what working memory is and how to strengthen it with practical strategies. Students will learn techniques like note-taking, breaking information into smaller parts, and making connections to improve success on academic tasks. This lesson is part of a complete 20-lesson executive functioning curriculum.
Working Memory: Executive Functioning Counseling Lesson Plan for Grades 5–8: Help students strengthen their working memory skills with this engaging and practical counseling lesson plan. Designed for upper elementary and middle school students, this lesson teaches what working memory is, why it matters, and how to use strategies that support learning and task completion. Through interactive instruction and hands-on activities, students will practice note-taking, chunking information, making connections, and applying strategies they can use across school assignments and everyday tasks.
What’s Included:
- Detailed, scripted lesson plan (black & white printable)
- Slides for instruction and activities (PowerPoint file, compatible with Google Slides; not editable)
- Pre- and post-test to measure growth
- Visuals to reinforce working memory skills (black & white and color versions)
- Handouts for student practice activities (black & white printable)
- Student challenge cards (black & white printable)
Key Features:
- Designed for grades 5–8
- Approximately 50 minutes of instruction and activities
- Flexible for whole-class, small group, or individual counseling use
- Minimal extra materials needed: everything is included in this resource
- Easy to use in PowerPoint or Google Slides
FAQs:
Q: Do I need extra materials?
A: No. Everything you need is included, and all materials can be printed and used in a typical classroom.
Q: How long will this lesson take?
A: About 50 minutes, though timing may vary depending on student needs.
Q: Can this be used in small groups or with individual students?
A: Yes. It works well for a variety of counseling and instructional settings.
Q: Can I use this in Google Slides?
A: Yes. Upload the PowerPoint file into your Google Drive to open it in Google Slides.
This Working Memory Executive Function Lesson is a ready-to-use resource that gives students the tools they need to strengthen memory, focus, and learning skills in school. Whether you are a school counselor, teacher, or intervention specialist, this lesson provides everything you need to explicitly teach and reinforce working memory strategies.
Get the full curriculum here!
Please Note: this is a digitally downloadable resource. You will not receive anything in the mail.