Mnemonics+and+Illustrations



**Content** This strategy is to be utilized in the social studies classroom. This strategy may be utilized in other classes, but for this specific example, it will be used in the social studies portion.

**Grade Level** For this example, this strategy will be used in a seventh grade classroom. This strategy can be utilized in other grades as well.

**Curriculum Standards** These standards were obtained from the WV Department of Education website.

SS.S.7.6 Reading: Students will SS.S.7.5 History: Students will
 * use the dimensions of reading (phonemic awareness, phonics, background knowledge/vocabulary, high frequency word/fluency, comprehension, and writing) in their acquisition of social studies knowledge, insuring a foundation of college readiness in this genre.
 * recognize main ideas and supporting details to locate basic facts (e.g. names, dates, events).
 * distinguish relationships among people, ideas, and events.
 * recognize cause-effect relationships in content passages.
 * outline sequences of events.
 * summarize events and ideas. Infer main idea or purpose of content.
 * draw generalizations and conclusions about people, ideas and events.
 * write and edit organized texts of various genres to insure that information is clearly understood.
 * organize, analyze and compare historical events, distinguish cause-effect relationships, theorize alternative actions and outcomes, and anticipate future application (Chronology).
 * use the processes and resources of historical inquiry to develop appropriate questions, gather and examine evidence, compare, analyze and interpret historical data (Skills and Application).
 * examine, analyze and synthesize historical knowledge of major events, individuals, cultures and the humanities in West Virginia, the United States and the world (Culture and Humanities).
 * use historical knowledge to analyze local, state, national and global interdependence (Interpretation and Evaluation). and
 * examine political institutions and theories that have developed and changed over time; and research and cite reasons for development and change (Political Institutions).

**Description of Practices**
 * Students will be taught various aspects from the required social studies curriculum
 * Students will be given sayings that sound similar to what is being taught (alliteration or rhyme)
 * Students will be shown an illustration that represents the alliteration or rhyme
 * Students will use the simplified alliteration/rhyme and illustration to help remember these newly taught aspects

**Implementation Considerations** For this strategy, it is important to keep in mind, what works for some does not work for all. A certain prompt, illustration, or rhyme may benefit one student, not help one, and confuse another. It is important to know your students and how she or he learns best. This strategy can be used in both the general or special education setting. **Example**

**Citation** Fontana, J., Scruggs, T., & Mastropieri, M. (2007). Mnemonic strategy instruction in inclusive secondary social studies classes. //Remedial and Special Education, 28//(6), 345-355.