Nonlinguistic representation

Why Use Nonlinguistic Representations?

Knowledge is stored in two forms; a linguistic form which stores actual words and phrases into memory, and a imagery form which uses mental pictures and even sensations (smell, taste, touch, etc.) to help store knowledge into long-term memory.

The more we use both systems of representation, linguistic and nonlinguistic, the better we are able to think about and recall knowledge.

Implications for teachers and learners:

Studies have consistently shown that linguistic representation is the primary way we share new information with students (talking to them, having them read.)
What are we not tapping into????

Using nonlinguistic representations have strong effects on achievement, not only by helping with retrieving knowledge, but also by increasing activity in the brain.

The process of generating nonlinguistic representations engages students in elaborative thinking. When students elaborate on knowledge, they understand it in greater depth and can recall it much more easily.

activities for nonlinguistic representation

• Creating graphic representations
• Making physical models
• Generating mental pictures
• Drawing pictures and pictographs
• Engaging in Kinesthetic activity

Graphic organizers combine the linguistic mode and nonlinguistic mode because they use words and phrases, but also use symbols and arrows to represent relationships.

There are six common patterns for organizing information.


1. Descriptive patterns
2. Time-sequence patterns
3. Process/cause-effect
4. Episode patterns
5. Generalization/principle
6. Concept patterns

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Physical Models

Concrete representations of the knowledge being learned.
Examples: manipulatives in math, creating a diorama of an ecosystem, creating a model of the solar system.
Generating concrete representation, creates an "image" of knowledge in student' minds.

Generating Mental Pictures

The most direct way to generate nonlinguistic representation is to construct a mental picture of knowledge. Students can use their imagination or be guided through this process.

Drawing Pictures and Pictographs

Symbolic pictures to represent knowledge is a powerful way to represent nonlinguistic representation in the mind.

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Engaging in Kinesthetic Activity

Physical movement associated with specific knowledge generates a mental image of the knowledge in the mind of the learner.

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Nonlinguistic representation is probably the most underused instructional strategy of all reviewed in our book. Using this strategy can help students understand content in a whole new way.