Why is it important for lessons to revisit prior material?

The importance of revisiting prior material in lessons primarily lies in its ability to facilitate gradual mastery of the content. When students are exposed to previously learned information, it helps reinforce their understanding and retention of the material. This process supports the building blocks of knowledge, allowing students to connect new concepts with what they have already learned. Mastery is not typically achieved in one exposure; instead, it develops over time as students engage in various activities that deepen their understanding.

Revisiting prior material also allows students to identify and correct misunderstandings, solidifying their foundation for more complex topics. This iterative approach to learning is vital for long-term retention and comprehensive understanding, as it encourages students to integrate new knowledge with existing cognitive frameworks.