Module III methods/Strategies of Teaching History

3.4 
The Demonstration Method
This method is a demonstration of doing and showing. The method applies sight and touch 
rather than hearing as the major means of communication. This method combines telling, 
showing and doing for the benefit of the students. This method is essential in arriving at 
fundamental skills and practice in a very short time. It is the basic method for introducing 
new skills to students and for developing understanding. It is also basic in getting students 
accept new and better ways of doing something. 
The demonstration is always done by the teacher while the students watch. At the same time 
the teacher does the explanation. In many subjects, the demonstration method appears to be 
the only possible means of achieving the objectives of learning by doing. 

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3.5 
Principles of Demonstration Method
When the need to use demonstration method arises, you should pay attention to the 
following; 

Stimulate the learners to enable them see the need for demonstration. This
will arouse their interest and enable them participate actively. 

Have your working materials ready and in good condition. This will ensure a
smooth and uninterrupted demonstration. 

Arrange the learners properly. The physical environment must be
comfortable. The teacher should stand in a position where every member of
the class can see and hear every explanation. 

Provide every necessary information and theory before beginning the
demonstration. You should explain exactly what you are about to demonstrate 
and relate same to the students’ previous knowledge.

Follow the procedures sequentially and slowly to ensure understanding. 

Follow up with an application activity. 
3.6