Using Concrete Examples is a powerful way to learn because they help you connect abstract concepts to real-world situations. Instead of just trying memorizing a concept, you use specific, detailed examples to make ideas clearer and easier to remember.

Researching how these concepts are applied in biology can also help you develop the critical skill of transferring knowledge to new situations, which is essential for mastering the subject.

Invest the time to thoroughly explore examples of where the concept is applied. You could build a set of flashcards with examples for each unit or you could create a dedicated 'Concrete Example' notebook. If you are struggling to find an example, try asking AI to help!

Remember, there are also specific examples you need to know anyway. These can be found in the textbook and the course guide.

Here is an example of a concept or idea you may be trying to learn...

Abstract Concept: Angular Momentum

Concrete Example: A figure skater spinning faster when pulling in their arms

Angular momentum is a measure of the quantity of rotation of a body and is conserved in a closed system. According to the law of conservation of angular momentum, when the moment of inertia of a rotating body decreases, its rotational velocity increases to maintain constant angular momentum.

For example, a figure skater begins a spin with arms extended, rotating at a moderate speed. When they pull their arms in close to the body, they reduce their moment of inertia. To conserve angular momentum, their rotation speed increases noticeably.

This example helps students visualize how an abstract physics concept like angular momentum applies to real-world athletic performance and movement, especially in sports involving rotation.

Abstract Concept: Bernoulli’s Principle

Concrete Example: How a soccer ball curves when kicked with spin (Magnus Effect)

Bernoulli’s Principle states that an increase in the speed of a fluid (including air) results in a decrease in pressure. This concept helps explain the Magnus effect, where spinning objects experience a force perpendicular to the direction of motion.

For instance, when a soccer player kicks the ball with spin, the air moves faster over one side of the ball and slower on the other. The difference in pressure causes the ball to curve in flight.

This example makes Bernoulli’s Principle more accessible by showing how it directly affects sports performance and ball trajectory in a way students can observe and relate to.