A simple molecular approach is described that aids students in learning challenging stereochemical terms, definitions, and concepts, particularly when chemical structures are drawn in two dimensions. The approach starts with a structurally diverse family of natural compounds ([alpha]-amino acids) and gradually increases in complexity. The recently coined term "memory of chirality", which has become commonly used in the last decade, is introduced in this approach. Photochemical reactivity is used as the tool to understand stereochemical terms. (Contains 4 figures, 14 schemes and 8 notes.)