What is the primary goal of asking students to write words related to 'photosynthesis'?

The primary goal of asking students to write words related to 'photosynthesis' is to activate students' prior knowledge. This approach helps instructors identify what students already know about the topic, which can inform the direction of instruction. Activating prior knowledge serves as a valuable strategy because it engages students and facilitates connections between new information and existing knowledge. It encourages students to recall relevant concepts and terminology that may relate to photosynthesis, allowing them to build on their understanding as the lesson progresses.

By eliciting these connections, the teacher can gauge the starting point for instruction and determine which concepts may need more emphasis or clarification. This process helps in creating a more effective learning environment, ensuring that students are actively participating and linking new ideas to what they already know.