Here's how it works:
* Prior Knowledge: This refers to all the existing information, experiences, and understanding you have on a particular topic. It's like having a mental framework or "schema" that you use to make sense of the world.
* New Information: This is the information you are encountering for the first time, such as in a text you are reading.
* Combining: When you read, you don't just passively absorb words. You actively use your prior knowledge to connect with the new information, interpret it, and make sense of it. This process of relating what you already know to the new material is called schema activation.
Here are some examples of schema activation in action:
* Reading a history book: You use your prior knowledge of the time period and important figures to understand the events described.
* Reading a scientific article: You use your knowledge of scientific concepts and methods to analyze the research findings.
* Reading a novel: You use your knowledge of human emotions and relationships to understand the characters and their actions.
Benefits of Schema Activation:
* Better comprehension: By making connections between your prior knowledge and new information, you can understand the material more deeply.
* Increased memory: When you connect new information to existing knowledge, it becomes easier to remember.
* Critical thinking: Activating your schema allows you to analyze information, identify biases, and draw conclusions.
Overall, schema activation is a powerful reading strategy that can help you become a more effective and engaged reader.