Elena finds it very difficult to remember a long string of numbers, so she tries to memorize three numbers at a time. Later, she is able to repeat the numbers correctly because she grouped the numbers into more manageable groups of three. This is an example of ________. A) elaborative rehearsal B) mnemonic device C) persistence D) chunking Elena finds it very difficult to remember a long string of numbers, so she tries to memorize three numbers at a time. Later, she is able to repeat the numbers correctly because she grouped the numbers into more manageable groups of three. This is an example of ________.  A) elaborative rehearsal B) mnemonic device C) persistence D) chunking ÂÂ
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is:
D) Chunking
Explanation:
Chunking is a cognitive strategy used to enhance memory by breaking down large amounts of information into smaller, more manageable units. In Elena’s case, she finds it difficult to remember a long string of numbers, so she groups them into sets of three. This method makes it easier for her to recall the numbers later.
The human brain has a limited capacity for short-term memory, often referred to as Miller’s Law, which suggests that people can hold about 7±2 pieces of information in their working memory at one time. However, by chunking information, a person can effectively expand this capacity. Instead of remembering each digit separately, grouping them into meaningful sets helps store and retrieve them more efficiently.
For example, if Elena had to remember the number sequence 4893265714, she might chunk it as 489-326-5714 instead of trying to memorize ten separate digits. This approach is similar to how people remember phone numbers, credit card numbers, or social security numbers, which are typically formatted into smaller segments to aid recall.
Chunking is widely used in various learning and memory tasks. Students often use it to memorize vocabulary words, historical dates, or even musical notes. It is also commonly applied in everyday situations, such as remembering addresses, passwords, or shopping lists.
By organizing information into meaningful chunks, the brain can process and store it more effectively in long-term memory. This is why Elena is able to successfully recall the numbers—her use of chunking makes the memorization process easier and more efficient.