The Role of Repetition in Learning

This is an image of the Fraction Cards we used to
provide repetition and foster discussion. 

I want to read more about the role of repetition in learning. After introducing all the fraction concepts in the grade 4 curriculum, I gave a short assessment. I was disappointed with the results for quite a few as they had not mastered the concepts. How would I build a deeper understanding? I wondered.

Reminded of the successful factors and multiples approach employed last year, an approach that included lots of repetition, I decided to use a similar approach with fractions.  The approach is to use a template that students complete repeatedly with simple and more complex numbers in order to gain understanding. The format of the template and the work leads to a lot of discussion and conversation related to vocabulary, model making, and comparing.  This approach provides needed repetition to solidify concepts with pictures, numbers, and words.

This approach cannot stand alone however as we employ multiple learning paths to lead children to fraction mastery including the following:

• Videos
• Khan Academy
• Symphony Math
• Problem solving
• Assessments
• Movie Making
• Collaborative Work
• Games

There are so many avenues to learning these days leaving us with the challenge to best choreograph those avenues for vigorous, successful student learning and share.