Embedded Files
Holding information in mind while using it
Strengths-Based Lens
Students who work hard to compensate for working memory challenges often develop excellent note-taking systems, strong visual thinking skills, and creative problem-solving strategies. They tend to be resourceful and adaptable.
What It Can Look Like
Forgetting multi-step instructions by step 2
Losing track during long teacher explanations
Struggling to take notes while listening in class
Forgetting what they were going to say when called on
Difficulty following the plot in a novel study
Student Voice
"I understood it when you said it, but then it just disappeared."
"I can't listen AND write at the same time."
"I knew the answer a second ago but now it's gone."
Teaching Strategies (Tier 1 — Whole Class)
Universal strategies that benefit all learners.
Display instructions visually — never rely on verbal-only
Chunk information into 2–3 steps maximum
Use repetition and have students echo back instructions
Provide written copies of key information
Build in processing pauses every 10 minutes during direct teaching
Targeted Supports (Tier 2 — Individual/Small Group)
For students who need additional, more personalised support.
Provide personal instruction cards or task strips on the desk
Allow audio recording of instructions
Use a buddy system for checking understanding
Provide graphic organisers that reduce memory load
Break tasks into single-step cards they can tick off
Assessment Impact
May struggle with multi-part exam questions
Could lose marks by forgetting part of a question
Might find it hard to hold an essay argument across paragraphs
Could struggle with open-book exams if they can't remember where information is
Quick Wins — Try This Tomorrow
Write all instructions on the board before speaking them
After giving instructions, ask a student to repeat them back
Use a consistent colour-coded system for subjects/tasks
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