Hello colleagues, There is quite a bit of research, including studies with language learners, that demonstrate the value of activating prior knowledge --and when needed, building background knowledge-- on the topics we take up in class.In this article by Larry Ferlazzo and Katie Hull Sypnieski, the authors describe 4 ways to activate prior knowledge including:
- K-W-LCharts
- Anticipation guides
- Multimedia
- Preparatory Texts
Have you used any of these methods to activate prior knowledge? If so, how has the strategy worked for you? What tips can you pass along? Are there other methods you've used for this purpose? Is there something on this list you would like to try in your classroom?
(By the way, there are links to some of the research on this topic in the article, too.)
Cheers, Susan Finn Miller
Moderator, English Language Acquisition