A free newsletter by BJ Madewell
DIAGNOSIS ADD ADHD Now What?
Published 10th, 20th & 30th of each month
PLEASE SEE DISCLAIMER AT THE END OF THIS DOCUMENT!
November 10, 2002
MEMORY
"I can't remember."
" I forgot."
" I didn't hear you say that."
"You never said ....."
Numerous students (and adults, for that matter) suffer from memory deficits. If you are thankful for the redial button on your phone and computer programs that can find the program saved somewhere on the hard drive - you may have memory problems.
A learner/student with memory deficits is at a distinct disadvantage in the classroom. I propose to briefly explain the types of memory necessary for success in school/life. At the end of this newsletter are links for you to explore to improve memory skills.
SHORT-TERM MEMORY This the storage of information needed for temporary recall. For example: to call a store, you look up the number and memorize it long enough to dial the number. If asked within a few minutes what the number was, you probably won't know because the information was stored in short-term memory. Short term memory generally lasts a very short time hence the name Short Term Memory <grin>.
LONG-TERM MEMORY Information stored here is intended to be used over a long time. There are two types of long term memory.
SEMANTIC = BASED ON FACTS, CONCEPTS AND SKILLS ACQUIRED
EPISODIC = BASED ON MEMORY OF OUR EXPERIENCES AND EVENTS
In order for LONG TERM memory to work efficiently, three elements must work together.
STORAGE
Obviously, the information must actually be somewhere in long term memory. In order to "get there", information from short-term memory is transferred to long-term memory primarily through repetition. Studies suggest that information that causes an emotional response also tend to travel to long term memory. Repetition is NOT the only way to remember something over a long period of time.
DELETION
We are bombarded with such an overwhelming amount of information that our brain must distinguish what is important to remember and what is unessential information. This skill has to be taught to some highly distracted ADDers.
RETRIEVAL
This may be where students run into trouble with memory problems. Numerous students say, "I know what the word is but I can't say it." or "I can't remember what the sound for that letter is." or "I remember reading about that but ...." This may mean that the student has an inefficient recall ability. I have found that students unable to spell a difficult word, can recognize it rather easily when directed to a list of words w/ the target word included.
=============
What happens if a student has memory deficits?
Students study for a spelling test, take it at home, score 100% and flunk the test 30 minutes later at school. Children know the math facts on a computer game or w/ flash cards but can't complete a worksheet w/ the same problems on it.
End of chapter tests are poor even though daily work, homework and such are adequate.
After extensive teaching and practicing a student still does not 'get it.'
CAN MEMORY BE IMPROVED?
SURE!
IT'S YOUR CHOICE
Having
a poor memory is not a life-long sentence.
PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE
When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.
DISCLAIMER
This information is for educational purposes only. Much of then information is from classes and workshops I've taken during my 25+ years of working with ADD & ADHD students - sprinkled with my own comments, thoughts and insights
Some information is acquired from the INTERNET. Be aware that not all information on the WWW is accurate. Use your own judgment. This information is not intended to replace information from your doctor, therapist, lawyer, psychologist, nutritionist or psychiatrist. Consult your child's (or your own) doctor for additional input.
Editor: BJ Madewell
Wichita, KS area
316-733-9532
FAX not available
Email ADDchoices@aol.com or ADDchoices@yahoo.com
You may copy and print this newsletter for your own use and freely distribute it to others. You cannot sell this information. It is
FREE.
Please include my email address & phone # on anything you give to others.
Please fwd to others who may benefit.
BJ
Madewell
