When I’m lesson planning, the words of this quote resonate in my head:
“If you can’t explain it to a six-year-old, you don’t understand it yourself.”
Often attributed to Albert Einstein, this quote underscores the importance of clear and simple explanations when it comes to truly understanding complex subjects. There’s no documented source confirming Einstein actually said this, but it certainly aligns with the type of wisdom he is known for! But how does this help us with revision?
There are as many ways to revise as there are students as there are learning styles. And this quote resonates with the essence of the Feynman Technique which advocates for the ability to teach and simplify concepts as a measure of true understanding. (Richard Feynman (1918 – 1988), by-the-way, was an American theoretical physicist known for his work in the path integral formulation of quantum mechanics, the theory of quantum electrodynamics, and the physics of superfluidity of supercooled liquid helium, as well as a Nobel laureate in Physics in 1965. ) His is a great method will bring what you’re doing on paper to life and help to consolidate it. It also helps relieve some of the perceived tedium of revision which we often envision off-puttingly as long hours sitting at a desk just writing notes (though there are other ways to avoid this if you read my previous blog post on revision in general.)
Feynman’s nifty strategy is all about breaking down brain-bustering information into bite-sized, easy-to-digest explanations. Imagine mastering those tricky topics and feeling like a champ. This is how it works.
A Little Inspiration to Kick Things Off
Let me share a quick story about a student of mine from a few years ago, Alex. Picture this: Alex, just like you, was home edded and then came to me for A level art history. He found learning all those examples and art movements overwhelming: it seemed as daunting as climbing Everest in flip-flops. Then, we chatted about adding the Feynman Technique to his revision toolbox. By simplifying head-spinning concepts like Cubism and Surrealism into plain English, and teaching them to his little sister, not only did she get the hang of it, but Alex’s own understanding improved dramatically. He also recorded his explanations so he could revise and listen on the move. That’s the magic of this technique—explain it simply, and you know you’ve got it under your skin for good.
Tailoring the Feynman Technique for Home schoolers
One of the best perks of being home edded is that you can really make learning your own. To get started with the Feynman Technique, pick a subject that’s giving you a tough time. Try to explain it in your own words, as if you’re chatting with a friend who’s never heard of it before. Jot down, or play back, your explanation and see where you might need to fill in the blanks. It’s like being both the teacher and the student, which is pretty incredible for mastering tough stuff!
Crafting Your Study Toolbox
When it comes to creating study materials, think about making them as friendly and helpful as a good buddy. When I was gearing up for my university finals, I put together mind maps of simple explanations and held “teach-back” sessions with my study group. It wasn’t just me rambling; everyone was involved, asking questions and clarifying points, which really cemented our understanding. If you haven’t got a study group, then haul in a parent, sibling, neighbour or friend to help out, or even record yourself and listen back. If you realise you haven’t mastered your subject as well as you thought, if your explanations are patchy, getting too long and too complex, or your listener isn’t getting it, then go back over your materials again and then have another go.
Remember, you can change venues to do this; go for a walk, change rooms, talk over a cup of tea. Make it an occasion and that will help reinforce your memory too.
Conquering Exams Like a Pro
Now, knowing your stuff is one part of the process. The other part? Being great at managing your time. Make sure to lay out a study plan with focused time on the tougher topics. Avoid the stress of cramming by keeping a steady pace and sticking to your schedule. This way, you’re cool, calm, and collected when exam day rolls by.
If you need a quick refresher on a topic before you start, don’t forget about the treasure trove of resources online. Khan Academy is a goldmine for learning just about anything, BBC Bitesize is great for summary information and quick skills practice for GCSE, or watch this video on the technique itself.
When we’re doing exams we all have our eyes fixed on the end grade. But it is more than just that – it is about the journey to the finish line. Use the time to build skills that will help you beyond these exams: with Feynman Technique in your toolkit, you’re not just prepared – you’re empowered. Start peeling back the layers of those complex subjects, engage with your learning, and watch your potential and confidence soar.
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