Classroom strategies for teachers: twelve low-cost adjustments for students with ADHD

Most teachers have students with ADHD in their classes, diagnosed or not. The good news is that many helpful strategies are cheap, simple and benefit everyone.

Environment

• Seating. Place the student near the front or near you, away from windows, doors and chatty neighbours.
• Reduce clutter. A tidy desk and a clean board lower distraction.
• Allow movement. Let the student hand out books, clean the board or stand at the back for a few minutes.

Instructions

• Be clear and brief. Give one or two steps at a time. Write them on the board.
• Check understanding. "Tell me what you are going to do first."
• Use cues. A quiet signal or hand gesture to remind a student to refocus can avoid public correction.

Task design

• Chunk the work. Break long assignments into steps with mini-deadlines.
• Offer choice. Allow different ways to show learning, such as writing, speaking or a diagram.
• Vary the activity. Alternate listening with doing every 10 to 15 minutes.
• Provide models. Show an example of finished work.
• Allow extra time where appropriate for tests and written tasks.

Feedback and behaviour

• Give fast, specific praise. "I saw you restart when you got stuck."
• Correct privately whenever possible.
• Focus on behaviour, not character. "That was a hard moment" rather than "You are always disruptive."
• Use simple point or tick systems if they suit the class.

Organisation

• Provide a checklist for packing up.
• Set a routine for writing down homework.
• Encourage a single folder or planner rather than many loose papers.

Partnership

• Communicate positives to parents too, not only problems.
• Share what works so strategies are consistent.
• Seek advice from the school counsellor or special educator.

Look after yourself

Supporting a class of 40 is demanding. Choose two or three strategies to start with and build from there.

ZEKO's teacher view gives teachers class-level insight so support can be targeted. It is a classroom aid, not a replacement for professional assessment.