Characteristics
A student with memory needs may not be able to recall information that they have just received, as well as previously learned material. Often, following directions is difficult, as is listening comprehension, especially involving details. They may also take longer to recall information such as names or specific vocabulary.
What it is
An area of student need, involving difficulty remembering.
Teaching Strategies
Instructional
• Establish and use home communication system and student agendas for accurate relay of homework, projects, tests.
• Use repetition.
• Frequently check with the student for understanding.
• Use graphic organizers.
• Use concise and simple instructions.
• Use computers and assistive technology (graphic organizers).
• Use Differentiated Instruction and pair verbal and visual teaching methods.
• Provide a checklist of tasks for the student.
• Teach memory strategies, like rehearsal, association and mnemonics.
• Encourage use of a calculator.
• Encourage use of notebook/scrap paper/sticky notes, so that the student doesn’t have to hold information in his/her head.
• Use formula/reference sheets.
• Teach the skill of locating information and using it with reference materials.
• Follow a predictable schedule.
• Use colour coding system for note books and notes (one colour for “how to” pages and another colour for practice/application pages).
• Use sticky notes/highlighters and a colour system for the student to locate key information and find it again.
• Consider referral to the school board psychology and/or speech and language pathology staff.
Less...
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Environmental
• Use preferential seating to reduce distractions.
• Post reference material to act as an external memory aid.
Assessment
• Provide extra time for tests and assignments.
• Focus assessment on concepts/application of knowledge.
• Allow calculators, dictionaries, formula sheets, definition sheets during tests.
• Allow for the retaking of unsuccessful tests/assignments to demonstrate learning of those skills.
• Provide written instruction sheets and rubrics for assignments.
• Provide templates for the student to complete for assignments.
• Chunk tests and assignments and give feedback.
Resources
