Embedded Files
The ability to shift thinking, adapt, and cope with change
Strengths-Based Lens
Students who prefer routine and consistency are often deeply focused, thorough, and reliable. They may become experts in their areas of interest and develop strong systematic thinking skills.
What It Can Look Like
Becoming distressed when the timetable changes
Struggling to see another perspective in debates
Difficulty switching between subjects or tasks
Getting stuck on one approach to a Maths problem
Resisting changes to group membership or seating plans
Student Voice
"But you said we were doing something else today!"
"I don't understand why we can't just do it the way I learned before."
"When things change, my brain feels like it crashes."
Teaching Strategies (Tier 1 — Whole Class)
Universal strategies that benefit all learners.
Give advance warning of changes wherever possible
Use visual timetables and flag any alterations early
Teach 'Plan A / Plan B' thinking explicitly
Model flexible thinking out loud: 'My first plan isn't working, so I'll try...'
Celebrate when students show adaptability
Targeted Supports (Tier 2 — Individual/Small Group)
For students who need additional, more personalised support.
Provide a personal visual schedule with change markers
Use 'change cards' — advance notice cards for known changes
Practise transitions with countdown warnings (5 min, 2 min, now)
Create a 'safe return' plan when students become overwhelmed by change
Use cognitive flexibility games (e.g., switching rules mid-activity)
Assessment Impact
May struggle when exam format differs from practice
Could find it hard to adjust approach mid-essay if their plan isn't working
Might become distressed by unexpected questions
Could struggle with 'compare and contrast' or 'evaluate' questions requiring multiple viewpoints
Quick Wins — Try This Tomorrow
Warn students at least 5 minutes before any transition
Use 'What could we do instead?' as a regular classroom phrase
Start lessons with a brief 'what's the same and what's different today' overview
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