Final answer:
The memory strategy of arranging items into categories is called 'chunking.' It is a method that breaks down information into manageable groups, enhancing recall by capitalizing on the mind's capacity for categorizing information in a hierarchical manner, which simplifies access and retrieval of stored information.
Step-by-step explanation:
A memory strategy in which a child arranges items into categories is known as chunking. This technique helps the child and even adults to organize vast amounts of information by breaking them down into more manageable "chunks" or groups. By grouping related items or information together, the process of recalling facts and data becomes more straightforward and efficient, leveraging the mind's semantic network, where concepts are categorized and associated based on experience and frequency of use. This hierarchical arrangement of concepts enables more accessible retrieval of information as it creates a structured "file cabinet" in our minds where information is stored logically.
Other cognitive strategies that employ categorizing and consolidation include the use of mnemonic devices, such as acronyms and acrostics, or connecting new information with existing knowledge to make it more memorable. Chunking, along with these other methods, is invaluable for enhancing memory retention and recall, playing a crucial role in how learners manage and retain information in both educational settings and daily life.