This engaging, hands-on class is designed to help students in grades 4–7 build essential academic and real-life skills in a supportive, structured environment. Each week, students will strengthen their spelling abilities, develop executive functioning skills, and practice important life skills that promote independence and confidence. 

Unlike traditional classes that focus only on academics, this course teaches students how to learn, stay organized, and manage everyday responsibilities—skills that are critical for success both in and out of the classroom. 

Students will participate in interactive activities such as games, role-playing, hands-on organization tasks, and guided practice. Lessons are broken into manageable steps and taught using clear modeling so that all learners, including those who struggle with attention, organization, or memory, can succeed. 

What Students Will Learn

Spelling & Vocabulary 

● Understand spelling patterns (not just memorization) 

● Improve reading and writing skills 

● Use new vocabulary in sentences and short writing activities 

● Practice spelling through multi-sensory methods (writing, sorting, games)

Executive Functioning Skills 

● Following multi-step directions 

● Organization of materials and workspace 

● Time management and task completion 

● Planning and prioritizing tasks 

● Improving focus, memory, and self-control 

Life Skills 

● Responsibility and independence 

● Communication skills (asking for help, expressing needs) 

● Problem-solving in everyday situations 

● Preparing for school (organizing backpacks, materials) 

● Understanding routines and basic decision-making skills

Class Structure 

● Schedule: 2 days per week 

● Class Length: 1.5 hours per class 

Each class includes: 

● Spelling instruction and practice 

● Executive functioning skill development 

● Life skills lesson with real-world application 

● Interactive activities, games, and guided practice 

● Review and reflection to reinforce learning 

Teaching Approach

This class is: 

● Highly structured and predictable 

● Broken into clear, manageable steps 

● Interactive and engaging 

● Supportive for struggling learners 

● Focused on building confidence and independence 

Students will receive consistent guidance, modeling, and encouragement while gradually learning to complete tasks more independently. 

Who This Class Is For 

This class is ideal for students who: 

● Struggle with spelling or writing 

● Have difficulty staying organized 

● Need support with focus or following directions 

● Benefit from hands-on, guided instruction 

● Need help building independence and confidence 

Materials Needed 

Students should bring the following items to each class:

Basic Supplies: 

● 1–2 composition notebooks (for spelling and writing) 

● Pencils and erasers 

● Colored pencils or crayons 

● Dry erase board, marker, and eraser 

● Highlighters (1–2 colors) 

Organization Tools: 

● 1 binder (1–2 inch) with pockets 

● Dividers (labeled: Spelling, EF Skills, Life Skills) 

● Folder for loose papers 

Optional but Helpful: 

● Small pencil pouch 

● Timer (or access to one at home for practice) 

● Backpack (used during life skills activities) 

● Simple planner or notebook for organization practice 

Parent Notes 

This class focuses on skill-building rather than grades, helping students develop habits and strategies they will use across all subjects. Parents may see improvement in their child’s ability to stay organized, complete tasks, and communicate more effectively.