Working Memory- 3 Day Note Taking Camp for Neurodivergent Preteens

This three session camp is designed to help all teens, especially those with ADHD and other learning differences improve their working memory by learning note taking strategies that allow them to record their ideas quickly and efficiently during class, then use out of class time to take the brief notes and turn them into an effective study tool they can use in the future.

This three day camp is designed to support students in developing their note taking, reading,  and listening comprehension skills. Each session offers students opportunities to learn and practice note taking strategies.  Each class will begin with a mini lesson on a note taking strategy that is effective for students with ADHD and other learning differences.  

Students will then use the strategy of the day to take notes in response to a teacher presentation, read aloud, or short article.  These resources will focus on engaging, funny, or silly high interest topics that usually won't be addressed in school.  

The class will conclude with a short comprehension quiz using Kahoot! on the material presented to help students check for understanding and evaluate the effectiveness of the note taking strategy that they practiced.

The strategies taught in this class are:

Day 1:  Two Column Summary Notes

Review 5W's of note taking and introduce the strategy of two column summary notes.  Make a class summary of  the subject presentation for the day.

Day 2:  Two Column Study Question Notes

Discuss the importance of using open ended questions for study.  Practice a two column note taking strategy where students practice taking brief notes, then develop some open ended questions based on their notes.

Day 3: Cornell Notes

Bring the techniques we learned together.  Cornell notes provide a note taking template that includes space for thoughts, questions, and summary.