Using Classroom Discussion in High School to Teach Students Planning Skills

Posted In Discussion On March 28, 2025

Classroom discussion is a powerful tool for teaching executive function skills, particularly planning. When students engage in meaningful conversations about time management, goal setting, and habits, they develop essential executive function strategies that improve academic performance and prepare them for life beyond high school. This blog post provides teachers with discussion prompts to encourage student talk to help develop planning skills in students.

The Challenge of Time Management

Begin the classroom discussion by asking students about the difficulty of finding time to complete everything they need to do. Many high schoolers juggle academics, extracurricular activities, jobs, and social commitments, which can feel overwhelming. Guide students to recognize that planning ahead makes managing these responsibilities more feasible. Encourage them to share personal experiences of when they either successfully planned or struggled due to a lack of planning. This discussion helps students understand that identifying commitments and determining when tasks need to start is key to finishing on time. Teaching executive function skills through these conversations empowers students to take control of their schedules and improve their academic performance.

Understanding SMART Goals

Ask students what comes to mind when they hear the term “SMART Goals.” Many may associate the phrase with vague ideas about goal setting but might not fully understand the framework. Explain that SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely. By breaking down each component, students can see how setting clear and actionable goals can enhance their ability to plan effectively. For example, instead of saying, “I want to get better at math,” a SMART goal would be, “I will complete five extra algebra problems every night for two weeks to improve my problem-solving skills.” Classroom discussion around SMART goals fosters student engagement strategies that support executive function learning.

Defining Habits for Success

Next, ask students to define the word “habit” and collaboratively agree on a definition to record on poster paper for classroom reference. Discuss how habits influence their ability to follow through with plans. Positive habits, such as using a planner or setting reminders, support executive function learning and student self-regulation. Conversely, poor habits, such as procrastination, can hinder success. This conversation helps students see the connection between executive function skills and their daily behaviors, reinforcing the importance of intentional routines in improving academic performance.

The Importance of Time Estimation

Time estimation is a critical aspect of planning that many students struggle with. Ask them to share their experiences with misjudging how long tasks will take. Have they ever thought they had plenty of time to complete an assignment, only to find themselves rushing at the last minute? Discuss why accurately estimating time is essential for meeting deadlines and managing stress. Introducing students to executive function tools such as time trackers, checklists, and backward planning strategies can significantly improve their ability to manage time effectively. By engaging in classroom discussion on this topic, students gain practical executive functioning tools that enhance their ability to plan and execute tasks efficiently.

The Power of Being Intentional

Finally, explore the meaning of the word “intentional” with students. Have them define the term and discuss how being intentional with their time allows them to choose how they spend it rather than letting time slip away. When students understand that intentional planning leads to better outcomes, they become more motivated to use executive function strategies in their daily lives. Classroom discussion around this concept supports student confidence and instills a proactive mindset.

Conclusion

Engaging students in classroom discussions about planning not only strengthens their executive function skills but also improves their self-awareness and social skills. By guiding students through conversations about time management, SMART goals, habits, time estimation, and intentionality, teachers provide valuable executive function instruction that enhances student behavior management and academic success.

Additional Classroom Discussions

• Planning Discussion Questions for Grades 1-4
• Planning Discussion Questions for Grades 5-8

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