Executive Functions Student Workbook  

Help students in grades 8–12 build the executive skills they need to think, plan, and thrive. The Executive Functions Student Workbook (Think. Plan. Thrive. Series) is an interactive, classroom-ready resource by Dawn Matera, Ed.D., designed to teach the 12 core executive functions through clear explanations, hands‑on activities, real‑world problem solving, and guided reflection.

Key features

• Targets the 12 executive functions: Time Management, Goal Setting, Emotional Regulation, Task Initiation, Working Memory, Focus & Attention, Organization, Planning, Prioritizing, Metacognition, Self‑Monitoring & Self‑Talk, and Cognitive Flexibility.
• Student‑friendly lessons with concise definitions and practical examples.
• Engaging activities and peer exercises: time‑blocking scenarios, SMART goal templates, role‑play/reflection prompts, memory storytelling, distraction vs. focused listening comparisons, planning calendars, and prioritization tasks.
•  Built‑in self‑assessment: a 12‑item rating chart for students to track strengths and set growth goals.
• Printable worksheet pages with tables and lined response areas for classroom use or independent practice.
• Visually clear layout with icons (clock, clipboard, target, pen) and teacher‑friendly formatting that supports easy photocopying or digital assignment.

Benefits for educators and students

• Teaches transferable skills that improve academic performance and self‑management.
• Ready to use in short lessons, advisory periods, SEL blocks, or study‑skills classes.
• Flexible: works for whole‑class instruction, small groups, interventions, or individual coaching.
• Promotes self‑reflection and metacognitive awareness to support long‑term behavior change.

What’s included (high‑level)

• Definition + activity for each executive function (12 workbook pages).
• Tables, templates, and guided prompts (time plans, SMART goal grid, weekly schedule, organization sorting chart, working memory/peer story activity, focus comparison chart).
• End‑of‑unit self‑assessment and reflection prompts.
• Printable pages formatted for student writing and teacher distribution.

Who it’s for

• Middle and high school teachers, counselors, special educators, and coaches who teach study skills, executive function strategies, or SEL.
• Students in grades 8–12 who need structured practice with planning, organization, attention, and self‑regulation.

Format and use

•  Text‑based workbook pages (printable or assignable digitally). Includes classroom activities and peer exercises; visuals are worksheet icons and lined response areas.