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As parents, we’re always on the lookout for ways to give our middle schoolers an edge—especially in a world where excelling in STEM requires more than just memorizing formulas and definitions. The key to real success? Understanding concepts deeply and being able to communicate them effectively. That’s where narrative thinking comes in.
At Gifted World, we’ve had the privilege of learning from Dr. Anusha Krishnan—a scientist, writer, and passionate educator who understands how storytelling can unlock powerful learning. In her sessions, Anusha has shown students how narrative thinking isn’t just for writing essays—it’s a game-changer for tackling exam questions and mastering STEM subjects.
This Saturday, she’s hosting a special masterclass: Narrative Thinking to Crack Exams. Today, we’re sharing a sneak peek into how this approach can transform the way students learn and express their knowledge.
Unlocking Deeper Understanding: The Power of “Who, What, Where, Why, When, and How”
One of the most valuable techniques Anusha shared with us is the “who, what, where, why, when, and how” framework. It’s a storytelling staple that helps writers build engaging narratives, but in Anusha’s hands, it becomes a powerful tool for academic success.
Rather than just listing facts, this approach helps students:
Dig Deeper – Instead of stopping at the “what,” students explore who is involved, where the concept applies, why it matters, when it’s relevant, and how it works.
Make Connections – This method encourages students to link ideas, providing context and creating a richer understanding of any subject.
Communicate Clearly – Structuring answers like a story makes responses not just more engaging, but also more memorable and impactful.
STEM Success: How Storytelling Elevates Science and Technology
Now, you might be thinking—this sounds great for history and literature, but what about science or math? That’s where the real magic happens.
Anusha showed us how this framework strengthens scientific thinking. Take a question on climate change:
Who: Who is most affected by climate change? (Vulnerable populations, future generations)
What: What drives climate change? (Greenhouse gases, deforestation)
Where: Where are the biggest impacts? (Coastal cities, developing nations)
Why: Why is it important to address? (Sustainability, economic impact)
When: When did it become urgent? (Industrial Revolution, recent trends)
How: How can we mitigate it? (Renewable energy, carbon capture)
By answering these, students demonstrate a deep and structured understanding, rather than just listing facts. This way of thinking isn’t just helpful for exams—it’s the mindset that future scientists and engineers need.
Bringing Subjects to Life: History, Geography, and Beyond
This technique isn’t limited to science. In history, a simple question like “What was the impact of the Kalinga War?” can be transformed into a compelling narrative:
Who: Key figures like Emperor Ashoka.
Where: The strategic importance of Kalinga’s location.
Why: Political motivations and consequences.
When: The war’s timing in relation to Ashoka’s reign.
How: How the war led to Ashoka’s transformation and embrace of Buddhism.
Even a straightforward question like “What is a balanced diet?” becomes richer when students apply this method:
Who: Different age groups and their dietary needs.
Why: The role of nutrition in health.
How: Specific food groups and their benefits.
Suddenly, rote answers become compelling, well-structured responses that truly showcase understanding.
Beyond Exams: A Skill for Life
Narrative thinking isn’t just for better grades—it’s a lifelong skill. As Anusha pointed out, the ability to structure thoughts and tell engaging stories makes for stronger communicators in any field. Whether it’s explaining a scientific breakthrough, presenting an idea, or even writing a compelling email—this skill is invaluable.
The impact is already clear. After one of Anusha’s sessions, a parent shared how their child, inspired by the class, immediately wrote “a fictional narrative of a plane’s on-air trouble and successful crash landing.” That’s the kind of creativity and clarity that storytelling fosters.
Want to See Narrative Thinking in Action?
This is just a glimpse of what’s possible with narrative thinking. If you want your child to develop these powerful skills and learn how to apply them to exams (and beyond!), don’t miss Anusha’s upcoming masterclass: Narrative Thinking to Crack Exams, happening this Saturday, 22 February.
Give your child the tools to not just study better—but think better.
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