1. Executive Functioning
Task Initiation

2. What is “Task initiation”?
“Task Initiation” means getting started on your work:
As soon as the teacher/parent/boss assigns it
Returning to work immediately following a break (bathroom, drink, disruption, etc.)
“Task Initiation” is a key to success at school, at home, and at work
This is also known as being a “self-starter”

3. Do I struggle with Task initiation?
Thumbs UP for YES Thumbs DOWN for NO
I follow directions from adults within 3 seconds of hearing them.
I don’t need reminders to keep working.
I can follow getting-ready and going-to-bed routines without reminders.
I start my work in class as soon as the teacher is done giving directions.
I can start homework/chores with one reminder or less.
I can stop doing a fun activity when I remember I have work/chores/homework to do.

4. Breaking Down Assignments
Sometimes, it’s hard to start a task because it seems too big and overwhelming.
You can break down assignments and jobs into smaller parts and accomplish one at a time.
Smaller tasks are easier to accomplish
You can feel good about your accomplishments and will be inspired to achieve more!
What should I do first?
Any first step required to complete a second step
A small assignment that can be easily finished
Whatever is due first

5. Practice breaking down assignments
When you have a big assignment, it can be hard to be a self-starter.
Make your tasks easier to manage by breaking them down into smaller pieces.
Practice: You have been assigned the job of writing an essay in English. Your essay includes lots of parts. Put them in the right order!
Hand out cards with the essay writing process on them. Have students organize them into the right order.

6. Prioritizing Assignment Due Date Science Fair Experiment- hard (2 hrs)
Math Worksheet- easy (30 minutes)
English Essay- hard (3 hrs)
Science Fair Poster- easy, but has to be done after the experiment is completed (1 hr)
Due Date
March 16th
March 15th
March 18th
March 22nd
Pretend today is Monday, March 14th. You have been assigned the four assignments you see on the board. Their due dates are on the right. Some assignments are easy/short and some are hard/will take a long time. Make a plan for completing the homework on the paper I will give you.
Hand out the Task Initiation Calendar Practice paper and have students complete the calendar alone or in partners.