ABSTRACT
Learning by rote or mimicking responses modelled by others can often produce ‘shallow memories’ which are easily forgotten. More effective memory traces are achieved when personal thinking and ownership is involved. Firing more neurons makes a stronger network of links in the brain. If the learner wants to use ‘Isobel’ or ‘Imran’ in place of ‘Imogen’, this creative personalisation adds a further opportunity to add ownership to their learning. The creation of a picture provides learners with personal involvement, choice and application. The visual processing, muscular movement and thinking skills used whilst drawing all fire neurons in the brain. This increases the imprint of learning. Creating a game to play or a practical activity which applies and consolidates spelling patterns can be hugely enhanced by personal involvement. This invites the use of different materials to support individual learning needs. Syllables can be described as beats of sound within a word.
