Keeping the Brain Healthy
How do we teach in a brain-friendly way so that our learners will be more likely to recall the information being learned? There are five simple strategies we can utilize that will enable us to optimize memory formation. 
 
In previous issues, we have investigated the first two strategies, chunking and repetition. In this issue, we will look at the importance of oxygen and glucose in the process of learning and recalling information.



Dr. Rhoda Wolle is the Dean of Student Success and an Associate Professor of Education at Wisconsin Lutheran College in Milwaukee. She teaches Educational Psychology in both the undergraduate and graduate programs. She received her BS in Secondary Education from Martin Luther College, New Ulm, MN. She was awarded an MA in Education, with special emphasis on students at risk, from Marian University, Fond du Lac, WI. She earned her PhD in Educational Psychology from Capella University in Minneapolis, MN. Dr. Wolle has spoken internationally to thousands of educators, parents, and teens on the topic of education. She is a member of St. Lucas Lutheran Church in Milwaukee, WI. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, music, reading, sports, golf, sailing, and walking her dog, Kipper. 
They never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah. — Acts 5:42
Adult Education: Additum
Movement and Learning

An article from the archives of Parents Crosslink builds a compelling case for integrating movement into learning sessions. While many people would assume that this applies primarily to the education of children, many experts in the field of adult education indicate that adults also tend to learn better when there are breaks in the learning session, especially if those breaks allow for some movement.

Teaching Toolbox
Oxygen, Glucose, Movement

It comes as no surprise that when our brain is well-nourished, we can focus better, learn better, and remember more. Oxygen and glucose are two important components in a well-nourished brain.

What does that mean for us when we are teaching adults?



Curriculum Connection
We Still Believe and Confess

Some documents, like the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights, are important because of their historical significance. Other documents are important because they convey meaning that seems to transcend the here and now.

The Lutheran Confessions are among the most important documents that exist. They are an expression of our faith. They guide us in our understanding of the Bible. They help us recognize the false voices around us. Yet many Lutherans have lost sight of their importance.

NPH recently published a study by Seminary Professor John Brenner. Through this historical and doctrinal study, Brenner points to the application of the Lutheran Confessions for our lives today.

Click below for a sample lesson.

Sample Leader's Guide: PDF
Sample Student Lesson: PDF | RTF


Teaching Tip


Many of the people you will teach may not have been in school for many years. They might be hesitant to ask questions. Experienced teachers have found that asking, “What questions do you have?” elicits many more questions than asking, “Do you have any questions?” That slight change in wording implies you are expecting questions. Then pause for seven seconds to give people the opportunity to construct their questions. 
  Teach the Word  is a collaboration of Northwestern Publishing House,
Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, and WELS Adult Discipleship.