9 Ways to Model Working Memory

Posted In Teaching On July 18, 2023

Working memory is an executive function that describes the ability to use and recall information stored in the memory to complete tasks. When you model working memory strategies, you give students practical ways to stay on task, pay attention, and remember important information. Students who struggle with working memory often have a short attention span and are easily distracted by their environment. They tend to have difficulty remembering not only information but also what they need to be doing. This can lead to a myriad of problems when it comes to learning.

By modeling working memory strategies, educators can provide students with effective tools to navigate these challenges. The following behaviors can be modeled to help students develop their working memory skills.

9 Ways to Model Working Memory for Students

Use Mnemonic Devices

Show students various mnemonic devices you use to remember information. For example, demonstrate how acronyms or rhymes can simplify complex information and make it easier to recall.

Demonstrate Active Listening

During a discussion with students, explain how your behaviors—such as making eye contact, nodding, and paraphrasing—show you are paying attention to their ideas. This helps students connect active listening with memory retention.

Share Focus Strategies

Share a time when you struggled to pay attention and explain what you changed in your mind and body to regain focus. For example, discuss how taking a deep breath or shifting your seating position can help re-center your thoughts.

Break Down Multi-Step Tasks

For tasks with multiple steps, explain your process for remembering to complete each step. You might use visual aids, written instructions, or verbal cues to stay on track.

Address Distractions

Share one of your distractions—such as notifications or background noise—and then show how you brainstorm three solutions and decide which one to try first. This models problem-solving and self-awareness.

Set Reminders and Take Breaks

Show students how you use strategies like setting reminders, using timers, or taking small breaks to stay on task. Explain how these tools can improve focus and prevent mental fatigue.

Learn from Missteps

Share an example of something you did that made you get off track, such as forgetting an important deadline. Explain how the consequences affected you and what you learned to do differently next time.

Utilize Checklists

Show students how you use a checklist to maintain focus on a large assignment or project. Walk them through the process of breaking down a task, prioritizing items, and checking them off as they are completed.

Check Your Focus

When you begin to lose focus, explain your process for checking in with yourself to see if your attention is where it should be. This could involve asking, “What am I working on right now?” or “What do I need to finish next?”

The Power of Modeling Working Memory

By openly demonstrating these strategies in your classroom, you provide students with a practical framework for improving their working memory. This helps them stay organized, focused, and better equipped to handle the demands of learning.

To learn more about working memory and its role in executive function development, check out our related blog post: What is Working Memory?

Find other resources to help you model working memory for your students by viewing our other resources.

Additional Resources

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When educators model working memory strategies, they empower students to take control of their learning and build the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond.