ACL – Disney Mnemonic Lesson & PodQuizzes

Podcast Lesson Transcript

Hey everyone. Welcome back to the OT Dude Podcast! I'm Jeff, and today we're diving into the Allen Cognitive Levels. Now, I know what you're thinking, 'Yikes! Another scale to memorize?' But don't worry, I've got a fun analogy that will make it a breeze to remember. We're going to relate each cognitive level to Disney movies.

Why Disney movies, you ask? Well, let me tell you!

Disney movies are a universal language. They’re filled with iconic characters, memorable scenes, and powerful stories that resonate with everyone. Whether you grew up watching them or enjoy them with your own kids, Disney movies stick with you. Remember when Simba couldn’t wait to be king? Or when Ariel wanted to be part of your world? Those moments are unforgettable!

By using Disney movies, we tap into that nostalgia and familiarity. Instead of dry and abstract ideas, we get to relive the adventures of our favorite characters. This makes learning fun, engaging, and, most importantly, memorable. Plus, who doesn’t love a good Disney movie? If you don't, you're probably as grumpy as Grumpy from Snow White.

So, let's get started. Ready? Let's. Get. Functional!

Let's start with the boring part. The Allen Cognitive Levels go from level 1 to 6 at its most basic general level. It starts with awareness, level 1, then gross body movements, level 2, then manual actions, level 3...have I lost you guys already? Yeah, probably. Okay - let's Disney-fy it. One important thing to note is beyond the basic levels, we have modes of performance, right? 26 of them in fact. Yikes! We are going to simplify this, but modes can be thought of as 2 decimal increments, for example, 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, 2.0, and so on.

Let's start with Level 1, Awareness. For this, think about Finding Nemo. Remember the scene with the baby turtles, Squirt and his siblings, just starting to respond to the world around them? They're adorable, right? They're reacting to basic stimuli like the currents of the ocean and their dad, Crush, guiding them. This is just like Allen Cognitive Level 1, where individuals respond to basic stimuli. They might not be solving complex problems, but they react to their environment.

Okay, so how can we remember that Level 1 is Finding Nemo and not some other Disney movie, because there are a lot? Interesting fact. The running time for Finding Nemo is 100 minutes. Put a decimal there after the one in 100, and Boom! Level 1, Finding Nemo and Squirt.

1.0 - Withdrawing from Noxious Stimuli.

Think of when baby Squirt first feels the current of the ocean and instinctively pulls back. It’s like when you touch something hot and immediately pull your hand away. For the number 1.0, imagine a big “O” shape, like Squirt's wide eyes when he feels something unexpected. He withdraws because it's like a big surprise.

1.2 - Responding to Stimulation. Remember when Crush nudges the little turtles into the current, and Squirt excitedly responds, 'Whoa, dude!' The 1.2 sounds like “one too!” as in, Squirt’s also reacting to the push, just like when someone says, “Me too!” in response to a stimulus.

1.4 - Locating Stimulation. Picture Squirt looking around to see where the current is coming from, locating the source of the stimulation. Think of the number 4 as a square, and imagine Squirt scanning the four corners of his view to locate the current.

1.6 - Rolling in Bed. Now, imagine Squirt rolling in his little sandy bed after a tiring day of adventures. The number 6 looks like a curled-up shape, perfect for imagining Squirt rolling up in his bed. It’s about making simple movements to find comfort. 6 also sounds like sex, which happens in bed. 1.6 for rolling in bed.

1.8 - Raising Body Parts. Finally, think of Squirt raising his tiny flippers as he’s learning to swim. For the number 8, visualize Squirt’s flippers making an “8” shape as they move up and down, showing his learning to raise and move his body parts. One way to memorize things is through mental practice and imagery. So 1.8, what do you see when you close your eyes and visualize the number 8 and Squirt's flippers? 1 for Finding Nemo with Squirt. And 8 moving his flippers in an 8 pattern to swim around the ocean. "Remember: rip it, roll it, and punch it!"

Sweet.

It’s all about those basic reactions. Imagine trying to teach a baby turtle to solve algebra – that’s just not happening! Level 1 is all about simple, instinctive responses to the world around us. So, every time you think of Level 1, picture Squirt and his siblings learning to navigate their watery world, guided by their dad, Crush.

Next up, Level 2, Gross Body Movements. Picture The Lion King and young Simba. Simba's all about those big, gross body movements, running around the Pride Lands, jumping on bugs, and chasing after Zazu. Remember the scene where Simba and Nala are running away from the hyenas? They’re using their whole bodies, leaping and dodging. This fits perfectly with Level 2, where overcoming gravity and moving around in a coordinated way are key components.

How can we remember that Level 2 is Lion King? The second sequel to Lion King is called the Lion King II: Simba's Pride. So we will be remembering Simba and he is mentioned in the 2nd sequel of the Lion King. Or...yet another way to remember this is Simba's quote, "I can't wait to be king", the number 2, for to be king.

Let's break down Level 2 with its modes:

2.0 - Overcoming Gravity: Think of the scene where Simba is learning to pounce. He crouches down, ready to leap up and tackle Zazu. The number 2.0 can be visualized as Simba’s two legs, like his two paws that look like the number 0, pushing off the ground to overcome gravity. Just picture those powerful leaps and jumps!

2.2 - Righting Reactions: Remember when Simba and Nala tumble down the hill after escaping the hyenas? They have to right themselves and get back on their feet. The number 2.2 sounds like “two-two,” which can remind us of the two characters, Simba and Nala, tumbling and then correcting themselves, righting their positions to keep moving. Two best friends, learning their righting reactions.

2.4 - Aimless Walking: Picture Simba wandering around the Pride Lands, exploring without a specific direction, just enjoying his freedom. The number 4 reminds us of the four paws Simba uses to wander aimlessly. Imagine Simba’s carefree strolls as he’s discovering new things without any particular goal.

2.6 - Directed Walking: Now, think of the moment when Simba sees something specific, like the elephant graveyard, and heads straight for it. He’s no longer wandering aimlessly; he has a target. The number 6 looks like a directed path, curving toward its goal. This is Simba’s focused journey toward something intriguing.

2.8 - Grabbing: Finally, remember the scene where Simba grabs onto the ledge to avoid falling into the stampede? The number 8 looks like two hands grabbing each other, symbolizing Simba’s strong grip to save himself. This mode is all about using gross body movements to grasp and hold onto things.

So, Level 2 is all about those big, purposeful movements. Every time you think of Level 2, picture young Simba in The Lion King, running, leaping, and exploring the Pride Lands with all the energy and curiosity of a young cub. And remember, 'Hakuna Matata!' – it means no worries when it comes to understanding gross body movements!

Level 3 - Manual Actions: Now, let's move on to Level 3, Manual Actions. For this one, think of Aladdin. Aladdin is all about using objects to get by – whether it's the magic lamp, the flying carpet, or even just a loaf of bread to escape the guards. Remember the scene when he’s in the Cave of Wonders, and he’s navigating through all those treasures? He’s grasping objects, distinguishing them, and using them to his advantage. This is exactly what Level 3 is about. Manual actions and tool use.

To remember the number 3 for Aladdin, you can use the concept of the three wishes granted by the Genie from the magic lamp. This is a central theme in the movie and is easy to recall.

Let's break down Level 3 with its modes:

3.0 - Grasping Objects: Think of the moment when Aladdin first finds the magic lamp. He grasps it tightly, knowing it’s something special. The number 3.0 can remind us of three fingers wrapping around an object – a basic grasp. Picture Aladdin’s hand closing around the lamp, holding it securely. The zero can be imagined as all of the fingers, a cylindrical grasp, which kind of looks like a zero, or kind of like looking through imaginary binoculars with your hand, it's the same cylindrical grasp for around the lamp as he is holding it tightly.

3.2 - Distinguishing Objects. Remember when Aladdin sorts through the treasures in the Cave of Wonders? He distinguishes the valuable objects from the ordinary ones. The number 3.2 sounds like “three two. Three to another” as in moving from one object to another, distinguishing their differences. Imagine Aladdin’s keen eye picking out the lamp from all the glittering gold.

3.4 - Sustaining Actions on Objects. Picture Aladdin sustaining his actions on the magic carpet, steering it through the city. The number 4 looks like a sturdy base – imagine the vertical line and the horizontal line at the top forming a solid, supportive structure, kind of like holding an ice cream cone and keeping it from falling on the ground and making you very sad. But for the Aladdin analogy, picture him holding the tassel as the number 4. This symbolizes continuous action, just like how Aladdin holds onto the carpet’s tassels, maintaining his grip and control as they soar through the sky. The steady base of the 4 represents the stable, ongoing effort needed to keep the carpet flying smoothly, sustaining actions on objects.

3.6 - Noting Effects on Objects. Think of the scene where Aladdin uses the magic lamp and sees the genie appear. He notes the effect of rubbing the lamp and understands its power. The number 6, with its curved shape, can symbolize the magical swirl of the genie appearing. Imagine Aladdin’s amazement as he realizes the lamp’s potential.

3.8 - Using All Objects: Finally, remember the scene where Aladdin uses all his resources – the lamp, the carpet, and even Abu – to outsmart Jafar. The number 8 looks like an infinity symbol, representing Aladdin’s endless resourcefulness. Picture Aladdin juggling all these objects, using every tool at his disposal to save the day.

So, Level 3 is all about manual actions and using objects effectively. Every time you think of Level 3, picture Aladdin in Aladdin, grasping, distinguishing, and skillfully using the treasures and tools around him. And remember, 'You ain’t never had a friend like me!' – especially when it comes to understanding manual actions!

 Moving on to Level 4, Familiar Activity. For this, think about Beauty and the Beast. Belle is constantly engaging in familiar activities like reading her favorite books or interacting with the enchanted objects in the castle. This represents Level 4, where familiar activities and goal completion are the focus.

To help remember the number 4 with Beauty and the Beast and Belle, you can use the idea of the four main enchanted objects (Lumière, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, and Chip) that Belle interacts with in the castle. These four characters are central to the story and Belle's experiences. Let's integrate this idea into the explanation for Level 4.

4.0 - Sequencing: Remember the scene where Belle reads her favorite storybooks? She follows the sequence of events in the story, turning pages in order. Think of Lumière, the candelabra, who always lights the way in a sequence – one candle at a time. Lumière’s structured lighting of each candle symbolizes the logical sequence of actions. To remember the number 0, think of Lumière's round flame at the top of each candle, representing a perfect circle or zero. Picture Lumière lighting candles one by one, just like turning the pages of a book in order.

4.2 - Differentiating Features: Picture the moment when Belle first enters the castle and encounters the enchanted objects. She quickly distinguishes between the ordinary objects and those that are magical. Cogsworth, the clock, represents this mode. He has distinct features: a clock face, pendulum, and ornate details. The number 4.2 sounds like “four too,” as in seeing not just one feature but recognizing two distinct features. To remember the number 2, think of Cogsworth's two clock hands that always help differentiate time. Cogsworth’s unique design helps Belle differentiate between the magical and the mundane.

4.4 - Completing Goals: Think of Belle’s determination to rescue her father from the Beast’s castle. She sets a clear goal and sees it through, despite the challenges. Mrs. Potts, the teapot, is all about completing tasks – like brewing tea to perfection. The number 4.4 can be visualized as four arrows pointing toward a goal, symbolizing the focus and determination needed to complete tasks. To remember the second 4, think of Mrs. Potts' spout and handle forming an almost symmetrical pair, completing the goal of serving tea. Picture Mrs. Potts preparing a perfect pot of tea, seeing the goal through from start to finish, just like Belle’s resolve to save her father.

4.6 - Personalizing: Picture Belle making the Beast’s castle her own by adding her personal touch. She suggests changes, like teaching the Beast to read and encouraging him to be more open and kind. Chip, the teacup, represents this mode. Despite his small size and chip, he has a big personality and adds a personal touch to the story. The number 6 in 4.6 can be seen as a person putting their personal spin on something, like adding a curl or flourish. To remember the 6, think of Chip’s small, curved handle that adds to his unique charm. Chip’s unique character and his bond with Belle reflect the essence of personalizing.

4.8 - Rote Learning: Finally, remember the scene where Belle teaches the Beast to read. They go over the same words and phrases repeatedly until he gets it. The number 8 in 4.8 can be visualized as an endless loop, symbolizing repetition. Mrs. Potts and Chip often repeat their actions and roles, like serving tea, showing how repetition helps in learning familiar activities. To remember the 8, think of the round shape of Mrs. Potts' body and Chip’s cup forming an 8-like figure when placed together. Picture Mrs. Potts and Chip serving tea over and over, just like Belle and the Beast repeating their reading practice.

So, Level 4 is all about engaging in familiar activities and completing goals through structured, personalized, and repetitive actions. Every time you think of Level 4, picture Belle in Beauty and the Beast, interacting with the four main enchanted objects – Lumière, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, and Chip. And remember, 'Tale as old as time,' because these familiar activities are as timeless as Belle's favorite stories.

Next, we have Level 5, Learning New Activity. For this, think about Mulan. Mulan is the epitome of learning new skills and adapting quickly. She constantly improves and learns new strategies, especially during her training to become a warrior. And remember, Mulan and her story revolve around learning and mastering new activities. This is a perfect way to remember that Mulan is associated with Level 5.

Why Mulan is Level 5.

To remember that Mulan is Level 5, think of the fact that Mulan's name has 5 letters: M-U-L-A-N.

5.0 - Continuous Neuromuscular Adjustments: Think of Mulan constantly adjusting her form during training. The 0 represents the continuous, circular nature of her adjustments, like always coming back to correct her stance and form. Picture Mulan continuously adjusting her balance and grip while climbing the pole.

5.2 - Discriminating Between Parts of an Activity: Think of Mulan's fighting training. She has to learn to differentiate between her left and right hand, each foot position, and every step in a sequence. The number 2 can be remembered as two hands or two feet. Imagine Mulan looking at her hands and saying, “Left hand here, right hand there.” Picture her focusing on distinguishing left from right in her movements.

5.4 - Self-Directed Learning: Think of Mulan training by herself. She is determined to be more. The number 4 can be remembered by thinking of her saying, "I need to be more," as she practices on her own. So 5.4, self-directed learning to reach her goals of needing to be more.

5.6 - Considering Social Standards of Context: Think of Mulan fitting in with the other soldiers while keeping her secret. The number 6 rhymes with "mix," as in she has to mix in and blend with the group. Picture Mulan mixing in with the other soldiers, adjusting her behavior to fit in.

5.8 - Consulting with Others: Think of Mulan working with her friends to come up with a plan. The number 8 rhymes with "collaborate." Picture Mulan saying, "We need to collaborate," as she gathers her team to save the Emperor.

Finally, we reach Level 6, Planning New Activity. For this, think about Frozen. Elsa is perfect for this level because she demonstrates high-level planning and creativity throughout the movie. Here's how you can remember that Elsa is associated with Level 6:

Why 6 is Elsa.

Six Words. Think of the iconic line from the song "Let It Go": "Let it go, let it go." It has six words and represents Elsa's decision to embrace her powers and plan a new life.

6.0 - Planning New Activity: Picture Elsa singing "Let it go, let it go." The six words remind you of the number 6. As she sings, she is planning and creating her ice castle, which is a perfect example of high-level planning and executing a new activity.

Let's summarize everything we learned so far now.

Level 1 - Awareness: Think about Finding Nemo. Remember the baby turtles, Squirt and his siblings, reacting to the world around them. 100 minutes movie run time, Level 1.

Level 2 - Gross Body Movements: Picture The Lion King and young Simba. Simba’s all about those big, gross body movements, running around the Pride Lands. I can't wait to be king. To, as in to be king, is the number 2.

Level 3 - Manual Actions: Think of Aladdin. Aladdin is always using objects like the magic lamp and the flying carpet. Picture Aladdin holding the magic lamp and making 3 total wishes to remember Level 3.

Level 4 - Familiar Activity: Picture Beauty and the Beast and Belle. Belle interacts with the four main enchanted objects: Lumière, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, and Chip. Think of these four magical characters to remember Level 4.

Level 5 - Learning New Activity: Think of Mulan. Mulan is all about learning new skills and adapting quickly. Picture Mulan, which is spelled with 5 letters... training and mastering new skills to remember Level 5.

Level 6 - Planning New Activity: Think of Frozen and Elsa. Elsa demonstrates high-level planning and creativity, especially during her song "Let It Go." Remember Elsa singing "Let it go, let it go", which contains 6 words to remember Level 6.

PodQuiz Questions

Ready to quiz your knowledge of the ACLs using what we learned with Disney movies? Club Members gain access to this special bonus Disney Podquiz episode to make reviewing ACLs more fun. It’s 25 minutes long and contains a comprehensive set of questions for ACLs 1-6, including the modes, which the NBCOT Exam asks.

This one took a lot of hard work to make so I decided to make it available for subscription.

🦁 Hakuna Matata!

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