Conducting lessons†

In order to conduct the most productive lessons for children with ADHD, effective teachers periodically question children's understanding of the material, probe for correct answers before calling on other students, and identify which students need additional assistance.

Teachers should keep in mind that transitions from one lesson or class to another are particularly difficult for students with ADHD. When they are prepared for transitions, these children are more likely to respond and to stay on task. The following set of strategies may assist teachers in conducting effective lessons:

• Set learning expectations: State what students are expected to learn during the lesson.
• Set behavioural expectations: Describe how students are expected to behave during the lesson. For example, tell children that they may talk quietly to their neighbours as they work at their desk, or they may raise their hands to get your attention.
• Be predictable: Structure and consistency are very important for children with ADHD; many do not deal well with change. Minimal rules and minimal choices are best for these children. They need to understand clearly what is expected of them, as well as the consequences for not adhering to expectations.
• Support the student's participation in the classroom: Avoid bringing attention to differences between ADHD students and their classmates. At all time avoid the use of sarcasm and criticism.
• Help students correct their own mistakes: Describe how students can identify and correct their own mistakes.
• Use assistive technology/audiovisual materials: Use a variety of audiovisual materials to present academic lessons. All students can benefit from the use of technology (such as computers and projector screens) which makes instruction more visual and allows students to participate actively.
• Lower noise level: Monitor the noise level in the classroom, and provide corrective feedback, as needed.
• Divide work into smaller units: Break down assignments into smaller, less complex tasks.
• Highlight key points: Highlight key words in the instructions on worksheets to help the child with ADHD focus on the directions. Prepare the worksheet before the lesson begins, or underline key words as you and the child read the directions together.
• Concluding lessons: When concluding lessons, provide advanced warning as to how much time remains; check completed assignments and review learnings; preview the next lesson with clear instructions.

† U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, Office of Special Education Programs, Teaching Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Instructional Strategies and Practices, Washington, D.C., 2004.