Activating Prior Knowledge. The Secret to Deeper Learning - Shared by Kanupriya S
Hi, I hope you had a relaxing weekend. I just read this post and thought it might interest you.
Before we teach something new, we need to awaken what students already know. That’s how real learning sticks — by connecting the known to the unknown.
When learners link new content to their own experiences, they don’t just memorize, they make meaning. Here are five simple yet powerful strategies that Kanupriya S. shared to help students activate prior knowledge and why they work.
KWL Charts — What I Know, What I Want to Know, What I Learned
What it is: A graphic organizer that helps students outline what they already know, what they’re curious about, and what they learn by the end.
Why it works: It gives students ownership of their learning journey and helps teachers see what background knowledge students bring into the lesson.
Visual Starters
What it is: Use an image, short video, or real object related to the topic. For example, showing a nutrition label before a food science lesson.
Why it works: Visuals instantly grab attention, activate memory, and help students make personal and emotional connections to new content.
Brainstorm Boards
What it is: Invite students to jot down quick thoughts, associations, or guesses about a new topic before the lesson begins.
Why it works: This low-stakes activity surfaces prior understanding and misconceptions, while making every learner’s voice visible and valued.
Think–Pair–Share
What it is: Students first think quietly about a prompt, then discuss their ideas with a partner, and finally share with the group.
Why it works: It allows all students — especially quieter ones — to organize and express their thinking in a supportive way before sharing publicly.
Quick Quizzes or Polls
What it is: Short, informal quizzes or polls that check what students already know.
Why it works: They make learning interactive and help both teachers and students identify starting points — without the pressure of assessment.
Why it matters:
When students connect new knowledge to their existing understanding, learning becomes more meaningful, relevant, and lasting. It also boosts confidence and curiosity which are key ingredients for lifelong learning.
How do you activate prior knowledge in your classroom?
Which of these strategies have worked best for your learners, or do you use others you’d recommend?
