Lesson Plan

Where Do I Begin?

Guide 9th graders to initiate tasks by breaking them into steps, choosing a starting point, and using peer feedback and self-check tools to boost executive function.

Many students struggle to begin assignments, leading to procrastination and incomplete work. This workshop provides concrete strategies, peer-supported feedback, and self-monitoring to build confidence and task-initiation skills.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Preparation

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction and Objective

2 minutes

Step 2

Poster Exploration

5 minutes

Step 3

Peer Feedback Carousel

7 minutes

Step 4

Task Choice Matrix

4 minutes

Step 5

Start-Up Self-Check Cool-Down

2 minutes

Slide Deck

Beginning Steps Posters

Strategy 1: Break It Down

Strategy 2: Easy Wins First

Strategy 3: Quick Timer Burst

Lesson Plan

Where Do I Begin?

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Preparation

Step 1

Introduction and Objective

Step 2

Poster Exploration

Step 3

Peer Feedback Carousel

Step 4

Task Choice Matrix

Step 5

Start-Up Self-Check Cool-Down

Slide Deck

Beginning Steps Posters

Strategy 1: Break It Down

Strategy 2: Easy Wins First

Strategy 3: Quick Timer Burst

Activity

Worksheet

Cool Down

Where Do I Begin?

Dennis Donahue