Dean of Studies
The 'Forgetting Curve' Theory – Why is learning hard?
An article by Nikhil Sonnad in Quartz (qz.com: February 28th, 2018) discussed the “forgetting curve” as a dynamic in learning a new set of knowledge or skill. Our brain more easily retains important or surprising information, and so, one of the keys to learning is to convince the brain that the information matters. The memory experiments conducted by the German psychologist, Hermann Ebbinghaus in the late 19th century describes a mathematical formula of the rate at which something is forgotten after it is initially learned. For anyone that has tried to study (i.e. 'cram') the night before a test, this will be familiar.
The second discovery led to an understanding that the forgetting curve and the rapid decline in memory, can be softened by repeating the learned information at particular intervals, also known as ‘spaced repetition’. Using this strategy, the material is learned, then reviewed after (increasingly) larger time gaps. In effect, the learner is using their brain like a muscle to build and strengthen memory, by sorting out the important from the trivial, without overloading the brain and causing tiredness and fatigue.
As the term concludes and the Interim Reports become available, this time is an opportunity to reflect on the efforts and improvements so far. A significant motivation for learners is to be honest with yourself and consider whether the level of effort reflects the learning and commitment to personal excellence. For students in the senior years, the challenge is to prepare for the next assessment(s), refer to the WACE Checker and complete all set work. For students in the middle years (Year 7 – 9), the break presents an opportunity to evaluate learning habits and consider if there are new approaches to include in learning and being organised.
NAPLAN
NAPLAN, an assessment of literacy and numeracy, is undertaken annually by all Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 students throughout Australia. At St Norbert College, the NAPLAN Testing will be conducted in Term Two (Week 3), and the information below may also be accessed at:
https://k10outline.scsa.wa.edu.au/home/assessment/testing/naplan/tests
Tuesday 15 May
- Writing (40 minutes)
Language Conventions (45 minutes)
Wednesday 16 May
- Reading (65 minutes)
Thursday 17 May
- Numeracy – Part A [Calculator allowed] (50 minutes)
- Numeracy – Part B [Non-calculator] (10 minutes)
St Norbert Day – Friday 15 June
St Norbert Day is the celebration of the entry to eternal life for St Norbert and it is traditional for the College to mark the occasion with a day of celebration. The day will commence with a College Mass at which parents are invited to attend and the format for the afternoon will provide students with a choice of activities to attend (campus-based or off-campus). The bookings for these activities is underway, and students will receive information regarding sign-ups electronically via MCB.
Mr R Dowling (Dean of Studies)