As educators, we are constantly balancing the needs of diverse learners while managing workload and classroom expectations. A common concern is that inclusive practices—strategies designed to support students with additional learning needs—might create extra work. However, implementing inclusive strategies doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, these approaches can streamline teaching, improve classroom management, and enhance learning for all students.
Below are eight inclusive strategies that simplify teaching while creating a more supportive learning environment for every student:
- Assistive Technology for Writing & Self-Editing
Students who struggle with written expression can use speech-to-text tools to type their responses. To further develop their writing skills, they can use text-to-speech software to listen to their work and self-correct errors. This practice fosters independence, improves writing fluency, and benefits all students by reinforcing self-review and editing skills.
- Visual Schedules, Time Management & Checklists
Providing a structured visual schedule for the lesson or task steps helps students with executive function challenges stay on track. It also benefits all learners by clarifying expectations, reducing anxiety, and fostering independence in managing their own work. Incorporating visible classroom clocks and teaching students how to manage their time effectively further supports executive function development. Clocks help students gauge how much time remains for a task, aiding in planning and time-awareness skills.
- Flexible Seating & Movement Breaks
Allowing students the choice of where they work best—whether at a standing desk, on a cushion, or at a standard desk—empowers them to focus better. However, in some cases, seating plans may be necessary due to behavioural considerations or classroom management needs. When possible, integrating brief movement breaks benefits students with attention challenges and helps all students sustain concentration and energy throughout the day.
- Audio & Visual Learning Supports
Presenting information in multiple formats (written, spoken, and visual) ensures accessibility for students with processing difficulties while reinforcing learning for everyone. For example, captions on videos help many students focus while supporting language development for all.
- Scaffolding & Worked Examples
Providing clear examples of what success looks like before students start a task helps those with executive function challenges understand expectations. This strategy reduces confusion and makes it easier for all students to engage with learning. Where applicable, scaffolding can also allow students to break tasks into manageable steps with mini deadlines, such as planning, drafting, and finalising their work. This approach not only reduces overwhelm but also encourages better time management and self-regulation.
- Choice-Based Assessment & Demonstrations of Learning
Offering students multiple ways to demonstrate understanding—such as creating a video, writing a report, or presenting orally—encourages engagement and reduces barriers to success. It also allows teachers to assess true comprehension rather than just writing ability.
- Effective Note-Taking Strategies
Many students struggle with note-taking and do not know how to do it effectively. Providing notes can be essential for students who have difficulty listening and writing simultaneously, but it is equally important to teach students how to personalise these notes. Encouraging them to put information in their own words rather than passively reading what the teacher provides enhances retention and comprehension. By explicitly teaching note-taking skills, we can help all students develop a critical learning tool that will serve them beyond the classroom.
- Consistent Homework Notifications
Ensuring that homework notifications are consistently placed in the same location makes it easier for students to access and refer to them. With the wide variety of apps and platforms available, it can be overwhelming for students to check multiple places. Establishing a single, reliable location for homework assignments—whether in a learning management system, a class website, or a physical board in the classroom—helps all students stay organised and reduces unnecessary stress.
Final Thoughts
At Organising Students, we work closely with many schools to support students through inclusive strategies and provide professional development for teachers. Our goal is to equip educators with practical approaches that enhance learning for all students while making classroom management more efficient and effective.
We recognise that many teachers already incorporate inclusive strategies in their classrooms. Rather than feeling overwhelmed by change, consider starting with just one or two strategies that align with your students’ needs. Small, manageable adjustments can make a big difference over time and become a natural part of your teaching practice.
Inclusive strategies help create a more engaging and effective learning environment for all students. Since every classroom is different, what works best will vary. However, strategies that support specific learners often benefit everyone.
What inclusive strategies have you found helpful in your classroom? We’d love to hear your experiences and ideas!
To learn more about our work with teachers and schools please get in touch.
