Strategies for Integrating Prior Learning into the Classroom

• Charts - Make a chart of key information that can be a referenced in the room during a particular period/topic of study.

• KWL - Have students check off things in the “want” column when explored, and add to the “learn” column as they develop a topic. Consider a modified KWHL “Know, Wonder, How, Learned” chart

• Student Journals - Students write down what they have learned.

• Lesson Connections - Make explicit statements that connect what the students are going to study with what they have studied.

• Student Journals -  Have students write down what they have learned in a journal or notebook.

• Anticipation Guides - Access prior knowledge. Provide explicit links to prior learning. Focus attention. Easily scaffolded for English learners.

• Explore Concept - Prior to teaching the concept, provide opportunities for students to make their connections to prior learning through observations and brainstorms.

⬇️ EXAMPLES BELOW ⬇️