Elaboration is a cognitive science principle that can help teachers to create deeper learning experiences for their students. It involves actively connecting new information to prior knowledge and experiences. This helps learners to make meaningful associations, which can lead to more successful recall and comprehension of the material.

1. Relate to prior knowledge: You can use the elaboration principle by relating the new material to prior knowledge. Research has shown that students are more likely to learn and remember material when it is related to something they already know. For example, when teaching A-level students about the anatomy of the human heart, you could use the elaboration principle by asking the students to draw connections between the heart and similar organs they have studied in the past, such as the lungs. You can then ask the students to explain how the similarities they identified contribute to the function of the heart.

2. Provide examples: You can also use the elaboration principle by providing examples of situations to which the material can be applied. This helps to provide the students with a better understanding of the material by giving them a real-world context. For example, when teaching A-level students about the structure of the atom, you can provide examples of everyday objects that contain atoms and explain how they are composed. This can help the students to better understand the concept and remember it more easily.

3. Engage in discussion: Discussions are an effective way to use the elaboration principle with A-level students. Discussions help to create an interactive environment, allowing students to explore the material in more depth and come to their own conclusions. During a discussion on the properties of light, for example, you could ask the students to consider the impact of different colours on objects, and how the colour of light can be used to manipulate the perception of the object.

4. Make use of visuals: Making use of visuals is another way to embed the elaboration principle within A-level lessons. Visuals provide an effective way to explain material and make it easier to remember. For example, when discussing the structure of the solar system, you can provide diagrams of the planets and their relative positions, and then ask the students to explain the different properties of each planet.

5. Encourage peer learning: You can also encourage peer learning within A-level lessons. Peer learning involves students working together to discuss, debate and explain the material. This helps to foster a deeper understanding of the material, and allows students to share their knowledge with each other. For example, when teaching A-level students about the causes of climate change, you can ask the students to work in groups to discuss the different factors and explain how they can be addressed.