An Executive Functioning Mini-Lesson for Building Attention to Detail and Self-Monitoring Skills
 
This engaging activity gives students an opportunity to experience how quickly our brains can jump into action before fully processing information. Through a low-stakes challenge, students practice slowing down, reading carefully, monitoring their work, and reflecting on strategies that support success.
 
Unlike traditional "gotcha" activities, this resource was designed to promote self-awareness and discussion rather than embarrassment. Students complete a short Getting to Know You Activity, uncover a hidden direction, and then participate in a guided reflection about attention, working memory, flexible thinking, and executive functioning skills.
 
Perfect for beginning-of-the-year community building, executive functioning lessons, advisory periods, counseling groups, and IEP preparation activities.
 
What's Included
Welcome Educators page
Ways to Use This Resource Guide
Step-by-step implementation suggestions
Student-facing Getting to Know You Activity
Reflection page
Strategy checklist for improving attention to detail and following directions
Executive Functioning Skills checklist
Editable Google Slides version accessible by QR code or link
 
Great For
Advisory
Resource Classes
Counseling Sessions
Study Skills Courses
Executive Functioning Instruction
Annual IEP Preparation
Transition Programs
Beginning-of-the-Year Activities
 
Students leave this lesson with a better understanding of how their brains process information, practical strategies they can use in the future, and the reassurance that making mistakes is a normal part of learning.