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Understanding the Teen
Brain
Presenter:
Dr. Laurence Martel
National Academy of
Integrative Learning,
Inc., SC
(Notes
from presentation at the
July, 2004 High Schools
That Work Conference,
Atlanta,
Ga.)
Unique anatomical,
biological and
socio-emotional aspects
of the teen brain impact
learning, communicating,
coping and daily
interactions:
-
Learning styles are
diverse: Teach and
reinforce using a
variety of methods
(visual, auditory,
hands-on, groups,
print).
-
What
were you thinking?!
– They may not be:
As their brains are
still forming, teens
base decisions on
emotions more than
thought
-
Water: The brain
needs lots of it.
Students should be
drinking water in
all classrooms and
instead of soda,
sweet drinks and
coffee.
-
Fluorescent light
saps vitamins,
strains eyes,
increases stress.
Full-spectrum bulbs
should be used in
classrooms and the
workplace for the
health and
well-being of
students and staff
alike. Bulbs are not
significantly more
costly and are
available for
standard fixtures.
Web site:
www.fullspectrumsolutions.com.
-
Sleep: Teens need
more of it and wake
later in the
morning. Scrap early
morning tests; some
schools have found
later start times
beneficial.
-
Colorful posters,
interesting
pictures, cheerful
classroom décor
boost learning; drab
and boring rooms
squelch it.
-
Take
care with wall,
clothing colors when
working with
distressed students:
Blues and greens are
restful; red, bright
orange, bright
yellow increase
agitation and
stress.
-
Use
emotion and melody
in your voice when
you teach.
-
What?!: Be sure they
can hear you in the
back of the room,
and save your own
voice. Use a
wireless microphone
if needed.
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