Brain Boost: A Retrieval Routine for Early Elementary

You’ve probably heard of a brain dump, but in Stephane Bolton’s 1st grade classroom, she’s given it an upgrade: The Brain Boost. A Brain Boost taps into three concepts: retrieval practice, collaboration, and reflection.

Here’s how Stephane introduces the Brain Boost to her first graders, emphasizing to them how important it is to practice remembering stuff that they have learned.

Then, watch as Stephane models what she wants students to do in small groups. She shows them how she thinks aloud, recalls key ideas, and organizes information during this modeling phase. Note how Stephane NEVER misses the chance to get her students to say the sounds as she writes. This modeling pays off later on.

From there, students get into their groups and work together to recall what they remember about different body systems, writing or drawing on big posters. And check out those first graders spelling “bones” and “joint!”

Finally, the class comes back together to discuss the different posters, correct any misconceptions, and consider what else could be added. One of the biggest drawbacks of brain dumps (or unrestricted retrieval practice) is that it is possible for students to retrieve (and thus potentially solidify) inaccurate information. This debrief prevents this from happening!