CPD Session Idea 1: Working memory
Working memory and processing speed can be impaired in dyslexia and other neurodivergent conditions. This can be frustrating, even disabling, for the learner. Sadly, there’s no silver bullet, but empathy and adapting teaching methods can make a huge difference. It can be helpful for teachers to spend time considering what it is like to experience working memory difficulties, and how they impact the young person’s whole day, causing fatigue and frustration. Here’s some ideas for activities:
Simulation tasks
Ask staff to copy a foreign text from the board as quickly as they can, while you talk to them non-stop, or ask staff to talk about their hobby without using words containing the letter e. Copying from the board places high demands on working memory, as does under time pressures and being required to multi-task. It can cause difficulties remembering words you want to use and communicating fluently.
Watch & discuss a free film
Zeb's Day: A Day in the Life of a Schoolboy with Working Memory Difficulties
Working memory difficulties impact the whole of life. This film takes you through a day in the life of Zeb, a school …
Working memory and teaching and learning checklist
As a staff, go through the Working Memory Teaching and Learning Checklist as a self-evaluation and discussion tool.
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Working memory teaching and learning checklist
A checklist for educators to evaluate their own practice when meeting the needs of learners with working memory difficulties
