Incorporate visual aids into your lecture. For example, in basic math teaching, use visual counters to symbolically represent numbers or variables. To help teach symbolism in literature or other texts, create a visual representation of the text structure, such as a plot diagram, then write in bullet points to explain various uses of symbolism. The ability to compare a concrete representation with abstract symbolism helps students understand how symbolism operates in an abstract way.
Use basic examples to explain how symbolism operates. This will help students extrapolate your teaching when dealing with more complex symbolism in other lessons. For example, national flags generally incorporate a simple design of shapes and colors that are symbolic of the nation's ideology. Explain the use of symbolism in a common flag example, such as the use of stars on the American flag to represent independent states. This relatively simple use of symbolism requires the same mental process of abstraction to understand as do more advanced literary or mathematical uses of symbols.
Hold a class discussion. Though you can teach the basic concept of symbolism, your students need to participate in the abstraction process to develop their own skills. Call on students to explain their understanding of various uses of symbolism in the lesson. Encourage students to explain their own abstract viewpoints, but also elaborate on their ideas with deeper symbolic meanings. This will encourage students to think in a more thorough abstract manner, and will help them understand uses of symbolism in other lessons.
Utilize common examples of symbolism to encourage class participation. For example, explain the use of symbolism in a popular song lyric or television show. This will both help students understand the basic use of symbolism and will also encourage them to look for it when outside of the classroom.