Read/Review: All Kinds of Minds, pp. 82-120 ("Bill's Kind of Mind")
Keeping Ahead in School, pp. 45-81 (chapter on memory)
Chart paper and markers
Paper and pencils for students
Clock or timer
List of 6 unrelated words on chart paper
Materials
Lesson Procedure
Introduction: Ask students to brainstorm all that comes to mind when they hear the word "Memory." Record responses on chart paper.
Explain to the class that you would like them to look at and try to remember a list of 6 words in one minute. Present the list of words, wait 1 minute, then remove the list. Ask the children to write all the words they remember.
After they've finished writing, ask what strategies they used to remember the words in the list. Record strategies on chart paper.
Share the story about "Bill."
Repeat the exercise with a new list of words and encourage students to use memory strategies this time. Afterward, discuss whether or not the task was easier the second time and why.
Debrief (checking for understanding)
Extension/Going Further
Comments/Instructor's Note
This lesson can be adapted to any age group with minimal changes.
Submitted By
Lisa Sabo and Pia Awal
School
Paint Creek Elementary/ Lake Orion, MI and the Dalton School in New York City
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