G Is for Glucose
The brain runs on two primary forms of fuel: oxygen and glucose. Both are primary drivers for memory making. There are many ways to get more glucose into the brain, but too much glucose is not a good thing. When it comes to memory-making glucose, think moderation. Low and high levels of glucose are both bad for supporting memory function. On a practical level this means you should do the following:
-In moderation, encourage snacks and drinks with glucose (sugar or glucose is better than high-fructose corn syrup or fructose).
-Keep students active because physical activity triggers glucose release from the liver.
-Orchestrate emotional events because these, too, stimulate glucose production.
It turns out that using the body to learn does more than demand and use oxygen. All of the neurons involved in gesturing actually help us remember more.
B Is for Bias the Attention
Brains are busy, jaded, and often tired. Any type of attentional bias can help tell the brain, "Hey, focus your resources. This might be important." And that directive (e.g., framing) brings greater encoding resources (memory-making chemicals) to the event. Here is how you can bring more focus to an event: