These strategies are intended for students about whom you have concerns with processing information and following directions. Try these strategies before you make a referral.
Following Directions:
1. When giving directions, repeat them again using different words.
2. Using gestures when giving directions can be beneficial.
3. If there are several directions, give one to two directions at a time versus all at
one time.
4. Be specific when giving directions.
5. If possible, give a visual cue. For example, if making an activity you can
demonstrate the steps as you go along. Showing the completed project would
also provide them assistance.
6. When working with projects that have multi-step directions, it may be helpful
to write the directions on the board.
7. Create a list of common directions that are used throughout the day. When
needed, they can be laminated and placed on the board for the entire class, or
can be smaller to be placed on the individual’s desk.
8. The student may benefit from sitting next to an individual who would be
willing to provide assistance with multi-step tasks.
Processing Information:
1. Ask basic questions that have the answer in a picture or hands-on activity.
2. Provide small group opportunities where the children can discuss newly
learned concepts or ideas.
3. Provide adequate time for the child to process what you have asked and form
their answer. If the child does not respond after a given period of time, ask the
question in a different way.
4. Use several modalities when teaching materials (speaking, reading, writing,
listening, visual, hands-on).
5. Do frequent comprehension checks when teaching. Stop periodically and
discuss the information you have presented.
6. Encourage the child to ask for help.
7. Provide additional support for writing down information, such as assignments
in the student’s homework notebook. Actual pictures could also be taken of
what needs to go home (i.e. Math book, writing notebook, etc.). Some
students may need written directions on how to complete assignments so that
parents can assist them in the home.
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