MEMORIZING FACTS: A Multi-Sensory Solution
TO MEMORIZE FACTS: The student is to learn all dates, formulas, terms, and name spellings, etc. in the SAND TRAY ("memory box"). Student must trace the information in the sand, while verbalizing about it in rhymes, when possible, & mentally picturing it at the same time. 4 or more repetitions are required.
Student should then progress to "sky writing" to learn the same information using muscle memory. Student horizontally extends writing arm out in front of self, making a fist. Be sure NOT to bend the elbow. The opposite hand is used to weigh down the shoulder of the extended arm. (An aerobic weight may also be worn on the extended wrist.) In large sweeping motions, the student writes the information in the air with fisted hand and unbent elbow, while verbalizing about it and mentally picturing it with the eyes open. 4 Repetitions.
Then the same information is traced on the skin while verbalizing & visualizing. Try the inside of the arm or top of the thigh. 4 Repetitions. This step can also be done with the tracing finger on a table top.
This 3-step approach has stored the information in several parts of the brain: namely those areas that store information received from touch stimuli, muscle movement, motion, direction, mental images, and auditory and visual stimuli.
To retrieve information, encourage the student to trace on skin or table top to trigger recall, until automaticity is achieved.
PRIVATE AREA FOR MEMORY EXERCISES: The student should be given a quiet, private area to do memory exercises. Family rules should be established so that no one is allowed to interrupt. School and studying are very stressful for the learning disabled. The techniques they must employ to store information in long-term memory and retrieve it are unusual and embarrassing to them. Their privacy and ability to concentrate must be guarded.
Compiled by Dyslexia
& Dyscalculia Support Services of Shiawassee County
8053 N. Delaney Rd., Henderson, MI 48841
(517) 729-9108 Renee
M. Newman, M.S., Director
E-Mail: ReneeNew@dyscalculia.org
This page last updated on October 27, 1997.
Copyright © 1997 Renee M. Newman.