What is the primary purpose of a biology teacher asking students about their thoughts on mitosis at the beginning of a lesson?

The primary purpose of a biology teacher asking students about their thoughts on mitosis at the beginning of a lesson is to activate prior knowledge. This approach helps students to connect new information with what they already know, facilitating a more meaningful learning experience. By bringing their previous experiences and understanding to the forefront, students can better relate to and engage with the lesson content.

This strategy also encourages students to reflect on their existing knowledge, paving the way for deeper exploration and understanding of mitosis as the lesson progresses. It serves as a diagnostic tool for the teacher to gauge students' initial understanding and misconceptions about the topic, allowing for appropriate adjustments in instruction based on their responses. Engaging students in this way promotes their active participation and enhances retention of the new material being taught.