NYSTCE Students With Disabilities Practice Test

Which technique is most effective for helping students retain a sequence of steps in a process?

1. Multiple readings of the material

2. Creating a mnemonic device

3. Writing the steps out daily

4. Researching and summarizing each step

The correct answer is: Creating a mnemonic device

Creating a mnemonic device is a powerful technique for helping students retain a sequence of steps because it leverages the brain's ability to remember patterns and associations. Mnemonics turn abstract or complex information into simpler formats that are easier to recall. For instance, by creating a phrase or an acronym where each letter stands for a step in a process, students can tap into their linguistic and memory faculties. This method not only aids in memory retention but also encourages engagement with the material in a creative way, making it more likely that they will recall the information during tests or practical applications. The other methods, while they have their benefits, are often less effective for memorization of sequences. Multiple readings of the material can help with familiarity but may not sufficiently aid recall of specific ordered steps. Writing steps out daily can reinforce memory through repetition, but it lacks the creativity and meaningful connections made in a mnemonic. Researching and summarizing each step can enhance understanding, but without the mnemonic technique, the sequential relationship might be lost in translation, making it less effective for memory retention in terms of order.