By
Larry Ferlazzo, Katie Hull Sypnieski
March 1, 2018
Our Key Highlights Based on the Original Article from Edutopia
"Brain research from Carnegie Mellon psychologists confirms that it’s easier to learn something new when we can attach it to something we already know." Here are some strategies for building upon existing student knowledge and experiences.
Read Full ArticleNumerous studies have shown that students are able to better engage with new information and concepts when they build upon what they already know or what they've already experienced. To foster these connections, we as educators must develop relationships with our students that allow us to discover and understand what it is that they already know.
This concept, which we know as activating prior knowledge, is true for learning as a whole, but is especially key for literacy instruction, and in particular, literacy instruction for english language learners.
There are several ways in which educators can tap into and connect with this prior knowledge. At the link below, you'll find four such strategies that align with Common Core standards.
"To go even further, this strategy lies at the heart of our teaching philosophy—our students already possess a wealth of knowledge and experiences they can build upon as they encounter new learning."
"To go even further, this strategy lies at the heart of our teaching philosophy—our students already possess a wealth of knowledge and experiences they can build upon as they encounter new learning."
