Torch And The Firehose Notes
The sandwich method for general principles
To present an abstract idea—a general formula, a general law, a theorem—a good way is to present in order: • An easy example illustrating the principle • The general statement and explanation of the principle • A harder example using the principle
The bird’s-eye view and review
Often students can’t follow an explanation because they can’t tell where it is headed, what the ultimate goal is.You know, but they don’t. So begin a complicated explanation by giving an overview of what it is you’re going to do—the purpose, the general method, how long it will take, whatever. Some teachers like to write this outline on the board. When it’s all over, turn back and survey the ground you’ve covered together, and congratulate them on having made it.
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