One new strategy for learning that is based in neuroscience is to actually teach students how their brain works and learns. This strategy, called "brain literacy" is where a teacher explains the basic elements of brain function. This is done to

"[empower]... students as they recognize their ability to strengthen [their brain] each time they use it. As a teacher, you can emphasize how using the executive functions, both in the classroom and outside of school, increases their strength for academic success," (edutopia.org)

When students are able to understand the way in which their brain develops, they begin to buy into the growth mindset. They begin to understand that new content may be difficult at first, but with enough practice they will be able to master the content.

This article outlines specific ways to support a students' understanding of their brain to support and motivate students through the learning process.

Accessed from: http://www.edutopia.org/blog/building-brain-literacy-elementary-students-judy-willis

These strategies give students concrete examples of how their executive functioning will support their learning, and de-mystify the learning process and the reasoning for why you are teaching them in a certain way. By allowing students to understand your rationale for your pedagogy, students may be able to become more motivated and excited to learn. Being specific is also helpful because it allows students to think critically about the content, and how their brains are developing through the learning process and lesson. When students feel that their learning process is working, they are more likely to become motivated to work hard to master content.

Here is a short video that explains how the brain works that could be used to help students understand their brain:

http://www.edutopia.org/blog/building-brain-literacy-elementary-students-judy-willis