Activating Prior Knowledge
Retrieval from long-term memory is not possible unless the learning has been linked to prior knowledge. ~ Velcro Learning ~ |
The
single most important factor influencing learning is what the
learner already knows.
David Ausubel |
Activate Prior Knowledge
Meaningful learning is that in which new knowledge
and experiences have a personal connection with the individual and their
background knowledge.
Experiences do not become part of long term memory unless they are attached
to a prior memory or previous experience. Therefore "scaffolding" becomes
an important element in the teaching and learning process. How do we find
out what kids know?
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make a personal mind map - brainstorm on your own; share ideas with group; draw own mind map; share with other & add |
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“draw me what ______ looks like” |
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quick writes - brief "one minute" write at the start of the lesson to connect to previous lesson, story etc. May be prompted with an open-ended question |
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response journals |
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discussions |
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letter writing |
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K-W-L-W charts (Know/Want to Know/Learned/Still Want to Know) |
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individual brainstorming or mind mapping (think and draw the connections between information) |
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charting - students write what they know on sticky notes - categorize on a large web on charts - set new questions for investigation |
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setting purposes - “As a result of reading this/doing this, you will be able to know/understand/be able to.....” |
More Ideas on Scaffolding
Learning
always proceeds from the known to the new.
Good teaching will recognize and build on this connection. |