Which strategy supports retention of previously learned materials for students?

• A. Daily quizzes
• B. Providing periodic reviews
• C. Assigning homework every day
• D. Allowing students to self-study

Answer: (B)

Providing periodic reviews is an effective strategy for supporting the retention of previously learned materials because it reinforces knowledge over time. When students are exposed to previously taught content at spaced intervals, it helps to strengthen their memory and deepen their understanding. This method leverages the psychological principle of spaced repetition, where information is revisited and practiced, facilitating the long-term retention of knowledge.

Periodic reviews can also help identify areas where students may still struggle, allowing for targeted instruction. They encourage students to actively engage with the material, which can improve recall and comprehension. Through regular review sessions, students become more adept at retrieving information, making it easier for them to apply what they have learned in different contexts.

Other strategies, while beneficial, focus on immediate performance rather than long-term retention. For instance, daily quizzes may motivate students to study consistently but may not facilitate the same depth of understanding as thorough review sessions. Similarly, while frequent homework assignments and opportunities for self-study are valuable, they may lack the structured reinforcement that periodic reviews provide.