Use the sheet provided here

Activating prior knowledge is meaningful because it helps us make connections and we find out what we already know.  This helps us understand what we are about to read.

Print the subject/topic you are asked to think about:

For example: penguins

Then, think about 3 things that you already know about this topic:

  • Here are a few tips when you are thinking
    • What do you see, hear, feel, smell, taste?
    • What books have you read about this topic?
    • What personal experiences have you had?

What differences do you notice between 1, 2 and 3?

If you notice a difference between the amount of words in each one, you’re right.  Try your best to add a bit of detail if you can.

However, if you do not know anything about the topic, that is okay.  Hopefully, you will learn by completing the reading.