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How Do You Use Concrete Examples?

Published in Educational Strategies 3 mins read

Concrete examples are used to make abstract ideas easier to understand. They connect abstract concepts with real-world scenarios, enhancing comprehension and retention. The purpose is to show rather than simply explain. According to the provided reference, concrete examples are "specific, real-life examples used to illustrate an idea".

Why Use Concrete Examples?

  • Clarity: They eliminate ambiguity by providing a tangible reference.
  • Engagement: Real-life examples are more relatable and interesting than abstract theory.
  • Retention: People remember information better when it's tied to concrete instances.
  • Understanding: They facilitate comprehension of complex or new concepts.
  • Universality: Concrete examples often cross language and cultural barriers, improving communication.

Types of Concrete Examples

As stated in the provided reference, concrete examples can take different forms:

  • Verbal descriptions:
    • Example: Instead of saying "a high-risk activity," you could say, "Skydiving is a high-risk activity."
  • Stories:
    • Example: To illustrate perseverance, you might tell a story about a person who failed many times before succeeding.
  • Actual objects (realia):
    • Example: To teach about different types of rocks, you could show students actual rock samples.
  • Models:
    • Example: A scale model of a building helps understand architectural concepts.

Practical Insights on Using Concrete Examples

Here's how to use them effectively:

  1. Identify the Abstract Concept: Determine the abstract concept you are trying to explain.
  2. Brainstorm Relevant Examples: Come up with examples that directly relate to the abstract concept and will resonate with your audience.
  3. Choose the Most Effective Example: Select the example(s) that are the most clear, relatable, and relevant to the concept.
  4. Present the Example Clearly: Explain the example in a way that highlights the connection to the abstract concept.
  5. Contextualize the Example: Make sure to explain why your selected example works well for demonstrating the concept.
  6. Vary Examples: Use multiple, varied examples when possible to cover different scenarios or perspectives.

Example Table: Abstract Concepts and Corresponding Concrete Examples

Abstract Concept Concrete Example
Supply and Demand If the price of the latest game console increases rapidly it indicates a high demand against a limited supply.
Gravity An apple falling from a tree.
Evolution The change in the color of peppered moths due to industrialization.
Metaphor "He is a lion in battle."
The importance of team work A successful symphony orchestra that requires the cooperation of all musicians.

In summary, using concrete examples bridges the gap between abstract thought and practical understanding by providing familiar and relatable instances, leading to improved learning and communication.