What should a special educator first teach a student with ADHD to help improve note-taking skills?

• A. Identifying key information
• B. Using shorthand symbols
• C. Asking open-ended questions
• D. Applying mnemonic devices

Answer: (A)

Teaching a student with ADHD to identify key information is foundational for improving their note-taking skills. This approach allows the student to focus on the most critical points of a lesson or reading material, which is particularly important for learners who may struggle with attention and organization. By honing their ability to discern what is essential, students can streamline their note-taking process, making it more effective and less overwhelming.

When students learn to identify key information, they also develop critical listening and comprehension skills. This emphasis on significant details enables them to filter out extraneous content, thereby enhancing their focus and retention. Developing this skill can lead to more organized notes that are easier to review and understand later.

The other strategies, while beneficial, come into play after the student has mastered the ability to recognize key information. For instance, shorthand symbols can aid in taking notes more efficiently but rely on a preliminary understanding of what needs to be recorded. Similarly, asking open-ended questions is valuable for engagement and assessment but does not directly address the specific skill of note-taking. Lastly, mnemonic devices help with memory retention but do not directly enhance note-taking per se. Thus, starting with the ability to identify key information builds a solid foundation for effective note-taking.