How to Learn: Strategy for Faster, Improved Learning, Memory & Recall. Ages 10-12

Research shows that our brains can store an average of 7 pieces of data in our short-term memory, subtracting or adding two for some of us. According to the National Library of Medicine, and many other sources, chunking is a learned skill often assumed to help bypass the limited capacity of working memory. It's a strategy used worldwide in many fields and academic subjects. In this class, learners will learn how to easily chunk information with instruction and real-time scenarios and activities to work through individually, then as a group. By the end of class, learners will have strategies for faster and improved learning and recall to utilize for life. 

1. We will engage in a brief icebreaker activity.

2. I will teach learners about the process of chunking and how/why this works. They will be shown information that seems impossible to memorize, but that will soon be chunked and repeated throughout the class to store into longer-term memory, with learners likely being able to recall this by the end of class (demonstrating the exact techniques we will use). 

3. I will lead learners through activities on slides that demonstrate chunking and various strategies, asking them to work through a few problems with my support. Learners will have a chance to share their strategies if they choose to. 

4. I will check for understanding by giving the class two scenarios where chunking would be helpful, then ask how they would approach these using chunking strategies.

5. Learners will be given at least one (possibly two, depending on time) mission to chunk specific information for easier and more efficient learning and recall. They will work together as a group to form at least one way to do this, with my support if needed. If the class wishes to split into teams, breakout rooms may be used. Learners will present to me their strategy.

6. In closing, I will touch on what can be done to support transferring chunked information into long-term memory.