Unexpected: Gap Theory of Learning
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Unexpected: Gap Theory of Learning
One of the best ways to engage students is to open gaps in their knowledge. The authors analogize the need to fill these gaps to the need to scratch and itch or to relieve pain; it is irresistible. Too often teachers close these gaps without first ever opening them. The key is to either violate an existing schema or to open up some sort of mystery. A great analogy is the nightly news teasers such as, “Which household product could kill your family? Tune in at 10 to find out!” While not quite as dramatic, these types of riddles can stimulate previously unheard-of levels of student interest. Below are a few possibilities for the Industrial Revolution. This method also highlights the need for pre-assessment in order to determine where the students have existing gaps that can be tapped. Possible “teasers” for the Industrial Revolution unit:
• What is the #1 manufacturing country in the world? (USA v. China)
• How could the minimum wage a bad thing? (Adam Smith v. 30 days)
• Why did the peppered moth change its color? (industrial melanism)
One of the best ways to engage students is to open gaps in their knowledge. The authors analogize the need to fill these gaps to the need to scratch and itch or to relieve pain; it is irresistible. Too often teachers close these gaps without first ever opening them. The key is to either violate an existing schema or to open up some sort of mystery. A great analogy is the nightly news teasers such as, “Which household product could kill your family? Tune in at 10 to find out!” While not quite as dramatic, these types of riddles can stimulate previously unheard-of levels of student interest. Below are a few possibilities for the Industrial Revolution. This method also highlights the need for pre-assessment in order to determine where the students have existing gaps that can be tapped. Possible “teasers” for the Industrial Revolution unit:
• What is the #1 manufacturing country in the world? (USA v. China)
• How could the minimum wage a bad thing? (Adam Smith v. 30 days)
• Why did the peppered moth change its color? (industrial melanism)