It appears that the value of providing students with strategies to activate their prior knowledge base or to build a base if one does not exist is supported by current research. Creating an opportunity to challenge students to call on their collective experiences (prior knowledge) is essential. Through this process, teachers move students from memorizing information to meaningful learning and begin the journey of connecting learning events rather than remembering bits and pieces. Prior knowledge is an essential element in this quest for making meaning. Teachers should remember to: (1) present information which builds background ideas, concepts, and principles; (2) show (do not tell) through demonstrations, multi-media use, and graphics; (3) use outside resources, trips, and speakers; and (4) tell about the topic from personal experience. (RS)