Super Skills Lab

Course Description

Middle school is a time of growing independence—and growing expectations. Super Skills Lab is a 12-week online course designed to help students in grades 6–8 develop the real-world skills they need to stay organized, focused, and ready for whatever comes their way.

Meeting twice a week, this engaging and interactive class uses a project-based learning approach to teach and apply 12 essential executive functioning skills:

• Planning – Mapping out steps to complete big tasks
• Organization – Keeping track of assignments, materials, and ideas
• Time Management – Balancing homework, activities, and downtime
• Task Initiation – Starting work without procrastinating
• Working Memory – Following multi-step instructions without missing a beat
• Metacognition – Thinking about how they learn and improve
• Impulse Control – Making smart choices in tough moments
• Emotional Control – Handling stress and setbacks with confidence
• Flexibility – Adapting when plans or routines change
• Focus – Tuning out distractions to stay on task
• Goal-Directed Persistence – Following through on goals, even when it's hard
• Self-Monitoring – Catching mistakes and correcting course

Students will work on meaningful, age-relevant projects—like creating a personal study system, designing a time-budget for a week of activities, or reflecting on real-life decision-making scenarios—that build problem-solving and self-management strategies. Through collaborative discussions, reflection, and hands-on tasks, students will walk away with practical tools to boost their academic performance and personal growth.

This is more than a skills class—it's a launchpad for middle schoolers to become more confident, responsible, and self-aware learners.

What You'll Learn

• Master 12 executive functioning skills essential for middle school success
• Create personalized organization systems for school and life
• Develop effective homework and study strategies
• Build time management skills for balancing multiple commitments
• Learn stress management and emotional regulation techniques
• Practice goal-setting and persistence strategies
• Develop self-advocacy and communication skills
• Build confidence and independence for high school preparation

Course Features

• Project-based learning with real-world applications
• Interactive twice-weekly sessions designed for middle schoolers
• Collaborative discussions and peer learning opportunities
• Age-relevant scenarios and decision-making practice
• Personal study system development and customization
• Reflection activities and metacognitive skill building
• Tools for academic performance improvement
• Preparation for high school independence and responsibility

Materials Needed

• Planning and organizational tools (planner, folders, binders)
• Digital access for online sessions and project sharing
• Note-taking materials and reflection journal
• Basic supplies for project creation and organization
• Access to school assignments for real-world application

Prerequisites

No specific prerequisites required. This course is designed for students in grades 6-8 who want to develop stronger organizational and self-management skills. Students should be comfortable participating in online group discussions and be willing to share and reflect on their learning experiences. The course is particularly beneficial for students transitioning to middle school or preparing for high school independence.