Teachers need to understand the needs of the children in their various classes in order to manage their learning experiences. They also need to be patient when handling children with learning difficulties so as to help them achieve their potentials.

1. 6 THINGS EVERY
TEACHER SHOULD KNOW
ABOUT SLOW LEARNERS
HELPING SLOW LEARNERS SUCCEED IN SCHOOL
BY
AKINSANYA. I.O

2. Who is a slow learner?
Slow learners are not non-learners!
They must be taught and they so want
to learn and succeed! A few
adjustments in their learning process
can make a big difference!

3. Slow learners want their teachers to know…
1. WE NEED MORE TIME TO FIGURE THINGS OUT
• Give more practice problems in a particular area.
• More time may be needed on speed drills or reading comprehension than is
allowed for in the curriculum.
• Show patience! Tutor after school in help classes, if necessary.
• Create emotional security by not embarrassing them in front of their peers.
• Modify curriculum, if necessary—ie. shorten spelling list.

4. Slow learners want their teachers to know…
2. WE NEED MORE EXPLANATION AND DIRECT INSTRUCTION
• Be sure that instructions and expectation are given clearly.
• Define the terms—read, circle, count, find, define, copy, list, discuss, summarize,
compose, identify, etc.
• Have them repeat the instructions, if necessary. Point to the area on the paper that
you are explaining; see it, say it, cover it, say it.
• Explain material in creative ways.
• Teach them to listen for key words in explanations.

5. Slow learners want their teachers to know…
3. WE NEED HELP IN ORGANIZING OUR WORK, OUR DESK,
AND OUR PRIORITIES
• Provide a homework sheet or planner with a checklist format.
• Show what an organized desk looks like.
• Work closely with the parents to check completed work.

6. Slow learners want their teachers to know…
4. WE NEED TO KNOW WHY WE HAVE TO KNOW WHAT YOU
ARE TEACHING US
• Motivate with practical reasons to learn material.
• Set short range and attainable goals.
• Give many encouraging words and praise often.

7. Slow learners want their teachers to know…
5. WE HAVE DIFFICULTY FOCUSING OUR ATTENTION ON
LEARNING TASKS
• Eliminate as many distractions as possible.
• Seat them in the front of the classroom.
• Be punctual and prepare materials well before class.
• Expect accuracy and neatness in work.
• Model correct behavior in front of students.
• Stay as consistent as possible in classroom management and expectations.

8. Slow learners want their teachers to know…
6. WE SOMETIMES HAVE A HARD TIME SITTING STILL
• They need an active recess.
• They need organized sports at recess to learn social skills.
• Pair them with brighter students who will help the slower student and be
humble about helping.

9. Reference: Kathy Houk
http://ministry127.com/christian-education/6-things-every-teacher-should-
know-about-slow-learners