For the past few weeks we’ve discussed the importance of using non-linguistic representations to help increase student comprehension. Nonlinguistic representations can take a variety of approaches ranging from graphic organizers, to drawing pictures, to generating mental images, to engaging in kinesthetic activities.

However, the best approach of all is to combine nonlinguistic activities within one lesson.

For example, last week I discussed the “walking tour of the colonies” that I do with my 8th grade U.S. History class. This was an example of a kinesthetic activity.

However, what makes this “walking tour” extra valuable was that I combined this kinesthetic activity with other nonlinguistic representations.

First, when describing the activity, I model one station for the students and have them listen to me read about one aspect of colonial life. When doing so I encourage the students to imagine they were there…to think about what they see, hear, feel, and even smell…in other words, I encourage them to generate mental images.

The next step is obviously the “walking tour” itself which is the kinesthetic activity, but I also make sure the students are completing a graphic organizer at each station. Not only does this graphic organizer hold them accountable at each station, but it is a nonlinguistic representation that will truly help reinforce and build upon their knowledge base.

Finally, as a closure (or homework) activity, I have students pick three aspects of colonial life that they witnessed on their “walking tour” and draw a picture to represent each aspect.

Think about this lesson now…we know nonlinguistic representations help students increase comprehension and in the above example I was able to combine four different nonlinguistic representations within one lesson.

And don’t forget…the kids enjoy this type of learning as well.

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