What is an effective strategy for teaching students with ADHD?

Offering clear instructions and a structured environment is an effective strategy for teaching students with ADHD because it provides the predictability and organization that these students often need to succeed. Students with ADHD can struggle with attention, focus, and impulse control, so clarity in instructions helps them understand what is expected of them.

A structured environment minimizes distractions and allows students to know what to expect throughout the day. This predictability can help reduce anxiety and increase their ability to focus on learning tasks. Moreover, clear instructions enable students to follow along without becoming overwhelmed, facilitating their engagement and effectiveness in tasks.

In contrast, open-ended tasks might lead to difficulty in focusing due to the lack of clear boundaries or objectives. While allowing students to work at their own pace can be beneficial for some learners, it may not provide the necessary framework that students with ADHD might need to stay on task and monitor their own progress effectively. Finally, a lecture-focused approach can be particularly challenging for students with ADHD, as it may not keep them engaged and does not cater to their diverse learning needs.