What is Memory?

Memory is our ability to encode, store, retain and recall information. Past experiences help us to make decisions and can influence our behaviour or reaction to something new.

The two main categories of memory are short term and long term memory. Although they can be sub-categorised further, to have a general and simple understanding of memory these two will do!

 

Short-term Memory

This is information that you are only required to know for a few minutes. For example, how much something costs or how a visitor takes their tea.

 

Long-term Memory

These are things you're required to remember for longer periods of time. Things you need to store and retrieve, like how to tie shoelaces, recognising people and recall past experiences.

To create a memory, different areas of the brain must work together to produce new connections.

 

There are 3 stages or processes of memory

 

  • Encoding. Hearing something and creating a code in your brain. If you have just been told someone’s name and you forget it straight away, it is because you haven’t encoded it, probably due to not paying full attention.

  • Consolidation. This is where the memory is ‘glued’ together and becomes fixed or solid.

  • Retrieval. This is when it becomes a memory. Technically, it can only be a memory when you have remembered it! This is when you make and strengthen the connections. Every time you remember something, the ‘pathway’ gets stronger.

 

EdPlace has thousands of activities and worksheets to challenge your mind and keep those connections firing! Learning new topics and supporting them visually, helps to consolidate knowledge.

Maths worksheets  Science worksheets English worksheets

 

How can I help boost my memory power?

What is Memory?

 

  • By having a regular sleep pattern to ensure that your body is functioning to its optimum.

  • By eating healthily to ensure that your brain and body is getting the right nutrients to maintain and develop.

  • Exercise increases the amount of oxygen in your brain and allows it to work efficiently.

  • Challenging yourself by learning new things and being mentally active can actually increase the size of your brain!

 

Try some worksheets here to challenge your brain and support your knowledge