Develop Working Memory in Elementary School: Addressing Student Behaviors to Improve Learning

Posted In Behaviors On April 1, 2025

As elementary school teachers, understanding how to develop working memory can transform the way we approach student learning needs and improve academic performance. When students struggle with staying on task, memorizing facts, or completing multi-step assignments, it may not be a motivation issue—it may be a sign of an executive function deficit in working memory. By integrating executive function instruction into the classroom, we can help students develop working memory skills, leading to greater confidence and success.

Understanding the Connection Between Working Memory and Student Behaviors

Working memory is a critical component of executive function and plays a fundamental role in a student’s ability to process and retain information. When a student has weak working memory skills, they may exhibit challenges such as:

Struggling to stay on task without direction

• These students often lose track of what they are doing when working independently. They may frequently ask for reminders or become distracted when attempting to complete assignments.

Difficulty memorizing facts by repetition

• Rote memorization is especially difficult for students with weak working memory because they struggle to hold and manipulate information in their minds long enough to encode it.

Trouble following multi-step tasks

• Whether it’s solving a math problem with multiple steps or following written directions, students with weak working memory often forget steps, leading to frustration and incomplete work.

By recognizing these signs, teachers can implement executive function strategies to develop working memory and empower students to overcome these challenges.

Strategies to Develop Working Memory in the Classroom

1. Use Visual Aids and Checklists

   Students with weak working memory benefit from having visual reminders of what they need to do. Posting step-by-step directions, using graphic organizers, or providing checklists can significantly improve a student’s ability to stay on track with assignments.

2. Teach Chunking Techniques

   Breaking information into smaller, manageable parts helps students retain information more effectively. Instead of expecting students to memorize a list of 20 spelling words at once, break it into groups of five and provide mnemonic devices or rhymes to support recall.

3. Implement Verbal and Written Instructions

   Providing both verbal and written instructions ensures that students have multiple ways to process information. Repeating instructions, checking for understanding, and encouraging students to paraphrase what they heard can reinforce memory retention.

4. Encourage Rehearsal and Active Engagement

   Students learn best when they are actively engaged. Using student engagement strategies like hands-on activities, group discussions, and movement-based learning can help strengthen their ability to develop working memory. Encouraging students to repeat and explain new concepts in their own words also aids retention.

5. Create a Structured Executive Function System

   A structured approach to executive function instruction, including consistent routines and strategies, can help students build working memory over time. By incorporating executive function lessons and executive function tools into daily teaching, teachers can systematically improve students’ ability to retain and use information effectively.

Building Student Confidence Through Executive Function Learning

As teachers, we want to foster an environment where students feel confident and capable of learning. Supporting working memory development not only enhances academic performance but also improves students’ self-control and social skills. When students have the tools to stay on task, retain information, and complete assignments independently, they experience increased self-confidence and motivation.

Solving Executive Function Challenges with Targeted Support

If you suspect that your students may be struggling due to weak working memory, consider implementing an executive function intervention plan. By assessing your student’s executive function needs, you can tailor support strategies that align with their individual challenges. Using an executive function curriculum designed to address working memory deficits can significantly improve a student’s academic performance and overall learning experience.

Looking for more ways to develop working memory and want additional resources?

• What is Working Memory? – Learn more about the role of working memory in student learning.
• Assess Your Student’s Executive Function Needs – Use this resource to determine areas where your students may need support.
• Explore Our Executive Function Curriculum – Find out how Cerebrate can help improve students’ executive function skills.

By focusing on executive function instruction, teachers can create a classroom environment where all students thrive.