INTRODUCTION :

Most teachers could talk at length about the specific challenges presented by
teenagers: they are often more socially anxious, can be easily distracted, and
are prone to extreme emotions. All of these qualities’ present unique challenges
within an education setting. An understanding the psychology of teenagers is an
invaluable asset for teachers to be able to develop effective teaching and
behaviour-management strategies.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE TEACHING A YOUNG

ADOLESCENT BRAIN:
 A young adolescent brain can hold seven items of information, plus or
minus two items, in working memory.
 The addition of emotion can help students remember.
 The brain is social & requires interaction in order to develop properly.
 Practice/rehearsal is critical to learning for the long term.
 We take in more information visually than through any other sense.

LEARNING STRATEGIES FOR YOUNG ADULTS:

 Story Telling.
 Reciprocal Teaching – Think, Pair and Share
 Metaphor, Analogy and Simile.
 Visuals and Graphics
 Mnemonics.
 Hands-On / Stimulations
 Wait Time.
 Rhythm, Rhyme and Rap
 Chunking
TEACHING TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN PRESENTING:

 Preparation
 Communicate with the classroom teacher
 Dress
 No sarcasm
 Humour
 Proximity
 Give directions that are clear
 Establish clear expectations
 You are the adult and the professional
 Respect
 Fairness

SOME COMMON PROBLEMS AMONG THE YOUNG ADULTS:

 Vulnerable to stress
o Run support sessions during examinations
o Encourage extra-curriculars.
o Make academic provisions.

 Poor attention span

o Emphasis on immersive learning.
o Active engagement.
o Minimize distractions.

 Sensitive to social pressure

o Create safe spaces.
o Use peer influence for good.
o Go digital.