Learning to Learn·Learning to Learn·meta
Understanding Why
Go beyond knowing *that* something is true — ask *why* it is true and *how* it works
Suggested ages 8–9
Evidence of understanding
- Ask 'why?' or 'how does that work?' about something they've been told, rather than just accepting it
- Explain the reason behind a rule or method — e.g. 'We carry the ten because 13 ones is the same as 1 ten and 3 ones'
- Show deeper understanding by connecting a new idea to something they already know — e.g. 'Oh, that's like when we...'
Assessment prompt
Does Understanding Why often ask 'but why?' when they learn a fact — wanting to understand the reason behind it rather than just accepting it?
Standards alignment
No external standards are linked to this topic.