Lesson Plan

Treasure Hunt Strategy Plan

Students will practice recalling and applying multi-step clue sequences using visualization and chunking strategies to strengthen working memory and complete a classroom treasure hunt.

Working memory is critical for following directions and problem-solving. This fun, hands-on treasure hunt engages students in concrete practice of memory strategies that support academic tasks and real-world challenges.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

10 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up & Objective Setting

3 minutes

Step 2

Strategy Introduction & Modeling

7 minutes

Step 3

Guided Practice with Clue Sequences

8 minutes

Step 4

Classroom Clue Hunt Activity

10 minutes

Step 5

Reflection & Wrap-Up

2 minutes

Slide Deck

Memory Treasure Hunt

Welcome the student and set the stage. Say: “Today we’re going on a Memory Treasure Hunt to practice holding clues in our mind. We’ll use strategies that make remembering easier.”

What Is Working Memory?

Explain working memory in simple terms. Ask: “Can you think of a time you needed to remember several steps at once?”

Strategy 1: Visualization

Introduce visualization. Model by closing your eyes and picturing a blue book on a shelf. Ask the student to try.

Strategy 2: Chunking

Explain chunking. Use the example sequence from slide 5 to show how steps 1–2 form one group and steps 3–4 another.

Example Clue Sequence

Read each step aloud. Then ask the student to close their eyes and visualize or chunk them before recalling.

Try It: Practice Sequence

Hand the student the sequence on paper or display it clearly. Give them 30 seconds to memorize, then prompt recall.

Remember Your Strategies

Recap the two strategies quickly. Emphasize using these on the hunt.

Get Ready for the Hunt!

Transition to the hands-on hunt. Distribute the map and clipboard. Say: “Let’s put those strategies to work!”

Lesson Plan

Treasure Hunt Strategy Plan

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

Step 1

Warm-Up & Objective Setting

Step 2

Strategy Introduction & Modeling

Step 3

Guided Practice with Clue Sequences

Step 4

Classroom Clue Hunt Activity

Step 5

Reflection & Wrap-Up

Slide Deck

Memory Treasure Hunt

What Is Working Memory?

Strategy 1: Visualization

Strategy 2: Chunking

Example Clue Sequence

Try It: Practice Sequence

Remember Your Strategies

Get Ready for the Hunt!

Worksheet

Activity

Memory Treasure Hunt

Sarah Lemire