Knowledge methodologies deal with ways to present facts and information about a topic. In higher grade levels, this often involves lectures, readings and audio-visual presentations. Because kindergarteners are still developing visual and auditory memory, as well as the ability to listen to others, they do not learn much from lengthy, passive attention to the teacher. It is best to limit direct instruction to segments lasting five to seven minutes, presenting, at most, two "chunks" of information during that timeframe. When it is necessary to use direct instruction, kindergarteners benefit greatly from knowledge methodologies that are more stimulating, such as demonstrations, brainstorming and mental imagery.
Synthesis methodologies provide ways for kindergarteners to use what they have learned to construct a new understanding of the topic. A teaching strategy that is successful is cooperative learning, which divides children into small groups of different ability levels to improve their understanding of a subject through completion of a task or project. Cooperative learning is an effective method because it facilitates peer-to-peer teaching and encourages students to take ownership of their learning experience. Other similar methods such as small group discussions, experimenting, graphic organizers (pictorial representation activities that help students categorize information and understand relationships between things and ideas) and problem-solving activities can also be successful. Just make sure that the activities are centered around a kindergartener's burgeoning love for expressing ideas, as well as insatiable curiosity and great need to figure things out.
Performance methodologies take synthesis strategies one step further by asking students to use newly acquired and previously learned information in hands-on learning activities. This includes practice (individual, skill or teacher-guided), role-playing, puppetry, simulations and projects, such as mobiles, dioramas, collages, illustrations and journals. Performance methodologies are effective in kindergarten classrooms because the methodologies involve interactive activities that allow kindergarten students to explore and learn through testing, manipulation and exploration.
Creating lesson plans for kindergarten students requires creativity and an understanding of and appreciation for the different ways young children learn. In early education, play — whether it is through solitary, group or cooperative play — is an integral component of learning. By incorporating the element of play into each lesson plan and including at least one of each of the three teaching methodologies, it allows kindergarten students to receive the necessary information, process it and use the information in a fun and creative way.