Does Your Child Struggle with Memorization??!!

After reading Forever Fluent, by Gabriel Wyner, as a result of my own desire to become fluent in Spanish, I found the technique of SRS or spaced repetition system to be a particularly useful study technique for memorizing any information not limited to vocabulary or to a new language. It can be used to study history or science facts, English vocabulary words, or words in a new foreign language.

SRS is a presentation method that gives you the information before you would forget it and makes sure that it stays constantly fresh in your mind. Anki,which can be downloaded from Ankisrs.net, allows students to create their own flashcards or download already created flashcards from a wide variety of topics: https://ankiweb.net/shared/decks/

After students create their own flashcards or download cards, they practice the cards and rate each card as “again”, “good” or “easy.” Then, based on the student’s rating, the SRS system keeps showing the difficult words and pushes the easier words into the future. It will only show them from time to time to help the student retain the fact or vocab word.

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What Else Can My Kids Do Over the Summer to Keep their Brains Strong?

 Just when you thought it was time to relax, the kids are complaining “I’m bored…..” If you haven’t tried Lumosity yet, it is definitely worth the time. Lumosity is a series of brain training games that work on improving  mental flexibility, memory, problem solving, speed and attention. Lumosity is a perfect tool for students with ADHD or those who just want to improve their memory. It was designed by neuroscientists, and in addition to the game like format it incorporates social networking. Users create a profile that helps them to track their progress.

 Lumosity is based on neuroplasticity, which treats the brain like a muscle that will adapt when it encounters new challenges. In the past, neuroplasticity was believed to only benefit children whose brains were still developing, but current research shows that teens and adults can also strengthen their brains.

 In order to benefit from Lumosity, players must use the program regularly. In addition, users should try try a variety of different games and increase their difficulty level over time to increase the challenges. When users create their profile they can identify their strengths and weaknesses.

 There is much evidence that supports the effectiveness of Lumosity and other brain training games but no one knows for sure. In any case, it certainly can’t hurt.

 

Check out the free app for the ipad and iphone at:https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lumosity-mobile/id577232024?mt=8

 Also please visit our website at http://www.beachcitiestutoring.com for more educational blogs.