Understanding Neurodiversity

Overview

This 60-minute lesson introduces Year 4 students to the concept of neurodiversity, focusing specifically on ADHD, to promote empathy, self-awareness, and inclusivity. It aligns with the statutory PSHE education framework in the National Curriculum for England, with emphasis on understanding differences and valuing diversity (DfE 2019). The lesson incorporates PowerPoint presentations and interactive worksheets designed for small classes (8 students), allowing for flexible differentiation.

National Curriculum Links

PSHE Education (Statutory) – Relationships and Health Education

Key Stage 2 (Years 3 and 4)

By the end of Year 4, pupils should be taught to:
- Respect differences and similarities between people.
- Recognise what makes them special.
- Understand and value family and friendships.

National Curriculum Guidance

Developing understanding of others’ feelings and perspectives.
Promoting mental health awareness and wellbeing.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils will be able to:

Define neurodiversity in simple terms and identify ADHD as one example.
Recognise strengths and challenges associated with ADHD.
Demonstrate empathy by describing ways to support peers with ADHD.
Reflect on their own unique traits and celebrate diversity within their classroom.

Resources Needed

PowerPoint presentation (15 slides) including visuals and simple language, animated to engage attention.
Worksheet 1: “All About Me” – a reflection sheet on personal traits and strengths.
Worksheet 2: “Understanding ADHD” – facts and myths with true/false activity.
Paper, coloured pens/pencils for creative activities.
Flipchart or whiteboard and markers.

Lesson Structure

1. Starter (10 minutes)

Activity: “Brain Diversity Warm-up”

Engage pupils with a quick discussion: “What makes your brain special?”
Use flipchart/whiteboard to capture responses about differences in how people think, learn, and behave.
Introduce the term neurodiversity: Explain it means all brains work differently and that’s a good thing.

2. Introduction to ADHD (15 minutes)

PowerPoint Presentation:

Slides explaining ADHD in child-friendly language: What ADHD is, common behaviours (attention difficulties, impulsivity, hyperactivity), and that it is a neurological difference, not a bad thing.
Highlight famous people with ADHD to inspire.
Use images and animations to maintain engagement.
Pause for questions and encourage students to share if they know someone with ADHD (optional).

3. Main Activity – Understanding and Empathy (20 minutes)

Worksheet 2: “Understanding ADHD” True/False activity

Pupils complete worksheets in pairs or individually, then discuss answers as a class.
Facts clarify misconceptions (e.g., “People with ADHD cannot pay attention at all” – False).
Follow up with a group brainstorming session: “How can we be good friends to someone with ADHD?” Capture ideas on the board.

Extension - Role Play (Optional if time permits):

Pupils act out scenarios showing positive support strategies (e.g., helping a friend stay organised, being patient during conversations).

4. Reflective Activity (10 minutes)

Worksheet 1: “All About Me”

Pupils list their own strengths, interests, and unique qualities.
Encourage sharing voluntary highlights to foster a supportive community.
Reinforce the message that everyone’s brain is different and special.

5. Plenary and Assessment (5 minutes)

Quick quiz using verbal Q&A to check understanding of neurodiversity and ADHD facts learned.
Pupils share one thing they will do to support neurodiversity in their classroom moving forward.
Teacher to note understanding and engagement, and collect worksheets for formative assessment.

Differentiation

Visual supports (PowerPoint and illustrated worksheets) help pupils with varying attention spans and learning preferences.
Pair work builds social interaction and provides peer support.
Teacher scaffolds language and concepts for pupils with additional needs.
Extension opportunities via role play for higher ability students.

Reflection and Follow-Up

Display completed “All About Me” sheets on a classroom noticeboard to celebrate diversity.
Use the lesson as a springboard for future activities on mental health and inclusion.
Encourage communication with parents via newsletter about neurodiversity awareness.

Teacher Notes

Maintain a positive and respectful tone throughout, normalising brain differences.
Avoid medical diagnostic language; focus instead on understanding and support.
Remind pupils that ADHD is just one way brains can be different—many others exist.
Ensure the classroom environment is supportive and confidential, especially if pupils disclose personal experiences.

This plan meets the National Curriculum’s aim of developing pupils’ self-awareness, respect for others, and mental wellbeing in an accessible and engaging format specifically tailored for Year 4 pupils.

Teaching Instructions