Master Brain-Based Learning in 10 Simple Steps

Thanks to advances in technology, we can nownames and names of their pets or favorite sport
actually view the brain as it learns throughwhen giving math problems).
neuroimaging and brain-mapping studies. This isRelational Memories
one of the most exciting areas is brain-basedThe brain only retains working (short-term
memory research available today.memory) for a minute unless it connects with
Based on my background as a neurologist and myprior knowledge. Activate their prior knowledge by
experience as a classroom teacher, I’vehaving students make predictions and KWL (What
created this list of tips for any teacher toI Know, What I Want to Know, What I Learned)
integrate brain-based learning strategies. Hopefully,charts.
you’ll find these connections between thePatterning
research and strategies NEURO-LOGICAL.The brain is a pattern-seeking organ. When
De-stressstudents recognize relationships between new and
Stress causes the brain intake systems to sendprior knowledge, their brains can link the new
information into the Reactive braininformation with a category of existing knowledge
(automatic-fight, flight, freeze) and preventsfor long-term storage. Graphic organizers and
information flow through to the reflectivemaking analogies builds patterns.
prefrontal cortex where long-term memory isMental Manipulation for Long Term Memory
constructed. Supportive classroom communitiesOnce the information gets to the prefrontal
lower brain stress and open filters for learning.cortex students must do something with it to
Use consistent rituals such as a class song,build permanent memories. Students can write
student jobs, a smile and a “goodsummaries of new information in their own words.
morning” greeting.To make these even more personally meaningful,
Grab Attentionthe summaries can be in forms that suit their
Memorable events make memories. Play musiclearning style preferences including graphic
when students enter the class and hang postersorganizers, sketches, and diagrams.
“advertising” or giving hints aboutPractice Makes Permanent
upcoming lessons. Curiosity increases attention andBy using multiple sensory lessons to review
memory. During lessons, dramatic pauses willmaterial, different neural networks store the
capture attention.knowledge in multiple brain regions. Their brains will
Colorbuild multiple pathways leading to the stored
Have students use colored pens to match thememory, which makes retrieval more efficient.
color of your whiteboard markers to emphasizeWhen a memory has been recalled often, their
the important information. Use green, yellow, andrepeated activation strengthens its neuronal
red in order of importance - like a traffic light.circuits, like exercising a muscle.
NoveltySYN-NAPS: Brain-Breaks
If students experience novelty fromAfter as little as 10 minutes doing the same
demonstrations, video clips, anecdotes, or evenactivity, neurotransmitters, brain transport
the enthusiasm in your voice, their attentive filtersproteins, needed for memory construction and
focus on the information.attention are depleted. Syn-naps are brain-breaks
Personal Meaningwhere you change the learning activity to let the
Students must care enough about newbrain chemicals replenish. The Syn-naps can be
information or consider it personally important forstretching, singing, or acting out vocabulary words.
it to go through the brain filters and be stored asAfter just a few minutes, their refreshed brains
memory. Use information from Interest Surveyswill be ready for new memory storage.
to connect students to the material OR use their