Free tool
Attention Load Checker
Describe a classroom task and get an honest read on how much it demands from student attention and working memory — and what to change before students struggle.
This tool evaluates task design, not students. Output is a starting point for reflection and adjustment, not a clinical assessment. It doesn't diagnose students or replace professional evaluation.
Required
Be specific. Include what students need to do, how long it takes, and what materials are involved.
K to 2
3 to 5
6 to 8
Optional — helps the tool be more specific
Under 5 min
5 to 15 min
15 to 30 min
Over 30 min
1 step
2 to 3 steps
4 to 6 steps
More than 6
Reading / ELA
Math
Science
Social Studies
Other
Analyzing the task...
This takes about 10 to 15 seconds
Attention Load Report
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out of 10
Attention load
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Want help redesigning this task?
Show Your Work is part of sySTEMary, a consulting practice focused on funding strategy and communications for nonprofits and mission-driven organizations. Questions about the tools or the research behind them? Get in touch.
mary@systemary.consulting