Lesson 4 of 7 · 6 min · 8-card deck

Explanations that stick

Worked examples, dual coding and concrete-to-abstract sequencing.

A great explanation does two things: it reduces cognitive load, and it connects the new idea to something pupils already know. Worked examples — fully solved problems that pupils study before attempting their own — are one of the most consistently effective teaching tools we have. They show novices exactly what 'good' looks like.

Dual coding (combining clear words with simple visuals) helps because working memory has separate channels for verbal and visual information. A diagram alongside a spoken explanation can almost double how much novices retain. But beware decoration: irrelevant images and animations actively harm learning by stealing capacity.

Active recall flashcards

Work through every card. Try to answer in your head before flipping — the act of retrieving is what builds durable memory.

Card 1 of 80 understood

View every card to unlock the next lesson.

Practice scenario

Teaching photosynthesis: rather than starting with the equation, the teacher shows a real leaf with chloroplasts under a microscope (concrete), then draws a labelled diagram of the process (pictorial), then introduces the word equation, then the chemical equation (abstract).

Try this in your classroom

Plan a worked example before any independent practice.
Pair each verbal explanation with a simple, relevant visual.
Sequence: concrete → pictorial → abstract.
Pre-empt the top 1–2 misconceptions in your explanation.