GK12 Montana State University

It has been shown that children can learn more efficiently when the concepts they are expected to master are connected in a meaningful way. This way, the students’ thinking can be more fluid and they are able to make connections more easily between different concepts they have learned. Also, unless learning is aligned with outside goals (from the school, the community, etc.) what students learn may not be valued by others. Using existing knowledge means utilizing lessons the students have previously been taught in school. If they are already aware of a concept or method, reintroducing it in the same way will be more effective than treating it as new material. Incorporating your materials into the school's curriculum and the state teaching standards can also help further student understanding.