Hack the Task Cards Hack the Task
Focus Power-Ups for ADHD Brains
Mission: Engagement
Speed
The Speed Run
Set a timer for 10 mins. How many can you solve correctly? Beat your record!
Math & Worksheets
Logic
Secret Agent
Look for "clues." Highlight every action verb or key date in a specific color.
Reading & History
Expert
Teacher Trap
Write one "trick question" about this topic that would stump your classmates.
Note Taking
Visual
4-Color Key
Assign a color to 4 categories. Use ONLY those colors for the whole task.
Vocab & Study
Rhythm
Beat Maker
Read text to the beat of a song. Can you make it rhyme or flow like a rap?
Memorization
Ask
Level Up Pitch
"Hey teacher, I'm finding this a bit easy. Can I try a challenge hack to help my brain stay focused?"
Self-Advocacy
Pro Tip: If a task is too easy, your ADHD brain shuts down. These hacks add the challenge needed to turn your focus motor back on.
My Focus Profile
My Favorite Hack:
I'll use it in:
Class
Voice Power Script Guide Voice Power
Self-Advocacy Script Guide
The "Boredom" Problem
When work is too easy, your brain checks out. Self-advocacy is asking for a Level Up challenge so you can stay engaged.
Challenge = Focus
The Challenge Request
"Hi, [Teacher], I’m finding this [Topic] a bit easy. To help my brain stay focused, can I try to [Hack] while I work?"
Example 1
"Can I time myself for a speed run?"
Example 2
"Can I write a trick question for later?"
Timing
Ask during work time or transitions.
Tone
Calm. You are asking to work better.
The "No"
Ask: "Is there another way I can challenge myself?"
Rehearsal Zone
1. Who am I asking?
2. What is the boring task?
3. My Draft Script:
Focus Quest Facilitator Guide Focus Quest
20-Minute Intervention Guide
7th Grade ADHD Intervention
Objective
Students will learn to use "challenge hacks" to stimulate their interest-based nervous system and practice self-advocacy to request these modifications in class.
Materials
• Hack the Task Cards
• Voice Power Script
• Timers & Highlighters
Pacing Guide
0-5m
Introduction: The Motor Analogy
Explain: ADHD focus isn't a battery; it's a motor. Boring work is like trying to drive in neutral. Challenges provide the "high octane" fuel needed to engage the gears.
5-15m
Exploration & Matching
Distribute Hack the Task Cards . Have students pick 1-2 favorites. Ask: "Which of these hacks would have saved you during yesterday's most boring class?"
15-20m
The Pitch (Self-Advocacy)
Use Voice Power Script . Key takeaway: Students aren't asking for less work, they are asking for tighter work to help their focus.
Common Hurdles
Refusal: If a teacher says no, help the student identify a "stealth hack" (like the 4-color key) that doesn't need permission.Overwhelmed: Start with just one hack for one specific class.
Teacher Follow-Up
Check in next session. Use the scale: 1 (Still bored) to 5 (Full motor engagement). Adjust the chosen hack if it's not sticking.
