Author: Lori

PQ4R
Preview, Question, Read, Reflect, Recite, and Review

PQ4R is a tactic used to improve one’s memory. It simply stands for preview, question, read, reflect, recite and review. When reading a textbook or any passage be sure the information read is understood before moving on. Information is better processed and remembered when its completely understood.

Works Cited
Penner, Louis A., Alison Clarke-Stewart, and Edward J. Roy. "Chapter 7: Memory."Psychology. By Douglas A. Bernstein. Seventh ed. N.p.: n.p., n.d. N. pag. Cengage. Web.
Chapter 7 PowerPoint, Slides 1-36.

Memory 101

Good bye Middle School, Hello High School!

Lori Pham
AP Psychology
Period 5
07 December 2012

Welcome!

The thought of transitioning from middle school to high school can be a pretty nervous process, but for the most part its exciting. By taking up challenging courses it shows that you’re not afraid to push yourself to your limits. However a lot of hard work and dedication is required. That’s where having good memorization skills comes in handy. Knowing how your brain works with memorizing materials can greatly work to your advantage when it comes to studying. How does the brain process with memory, you ask? Follow along and I’ll be sure to guide you!

What is Memory?

Memory is constant learning over time through the use of storage and information retrieval. There are five types of memory; Episodic, Semantic, Procedural, Explicit and Implicit. However all information taken is processes through the same procedure of encoding, storage and retrieval.

Practice makes perfect!
In order to make perfect, or in this case, memorizing information, rehearsal is required. There are two types of rehearsals; Elaborative and Maintenance. Elaborative rehearsal involves applying the need-to-know information to real-life. Maintenance rehearsal involves repetition. A type of repetition that is usually used for studying is flashcards. Flashcards provide a sense of repetition because you’re flipping through the cards testing your memorization.
Information Processing
The way information processing works is similar to a computer. The brain first encodes the information into the memory system through either acoustic, visual and/or semantic. It also deals with chunking, which is organizing items into familiar units or through acronyms. This often happens automatically. Its then stored over time in either short-term or long-term memory. In short-term, if further information isn’t process then it disappears in a matter of 20-30 seconds. The immediate memory span is usually
7 +/- 2. In long-term, information is permanent and stored in the memory system through explicit or implicit. Now, in order to retrieve information its either through recalling or recognizing. Relearning and priming can also be referred to as retrieval. Its basically the concept of remembering from previous learned information.
How to Improve Your Memory
A strategy that’s used for remembering information is Mnemonics. The method of loci is one for it deals with well-know locations. Some are able to recall information easier by associating objects with a specific location. While studying, use distributive practice of studying overtime opposed from massed practice of all at once. Outlines that are well organized with elaborate information is very helpful.