Why This Resource Works

Help Students Understand Distraction Before Asking Them to Focus

Investigating Distraction is a practical classroom resource designed to help students explore where attention goes, how distraction operates, and why concentration is often lost during learning. Through a series of guided investigations, students learn to observe thoughts, physical sensations, emotions, preferences, and other common attention traps that compete for focus in the classroom.

Rather than simply telling students to "pay attention," this resource helps learners develop awareness of their own attention. By recognising distraction as it happens, students begin building the foundation for stronger concentration, self-regulation, and independent learning habits.

Built around the central question, "Where is your attention now?", the activities provide teachers with a simple framework for discussing focus and distraction in a practical, non-judgmental way. Students learn that distraction is not something that happens to other people—it is a normal part of learning that can be recognised, understood, and managed.

What's Included

• Teacher introduction video

• Distraction Map

• Investigation 1: Spotting Thoughts

• Investigation 2: Spotting Sensations

• Investigation 3: Name the Distractor

• Investigation 4: I

• Student worksheets

• Discussion prompts

• Teacher guidance notes

Ideal For

• Upper Primary

• Secondary

• Tutor Time

• Wellbeing Programs

• Intervention Groups

• Classroom Focus and Attention Training

• Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Learning Outcomes

Students learn to:

• Recognise common sources of distraction

• Increase awareness of thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations

• Develop stronger attention awareness

• Build concentration and self-regulation skills

• Take greater ownership of their learning

• Develop a shared language for discussing attention and focus in the classroom

Recognize Distraction. Choose Attention.