Students are often asked to compare and contrast, distinguish, or pick out the similarities and differences between two or more items. Frequently, I have observed students attempting to respond by describing each of the items separately, in turn, without forming a comparison or contrasting statement, which is what this type of question prompt calls for.... Continue Reading →
Human Graphing is a great way to check for student to establish student views and perspectives on specific questions. Two simple methods that human graphing include: 4 Corners Graphing - Label four corners of the classroom e.g. A,B,C,D or 1,2,3,4. On a presentation slide, pose a question with 4 possible responses and ask students to... Continue Reading →
Every school I have ever worked in or visited is keen to improve. When school leaders often talk about improvement, they more often than not consider what is needed to help teachers grow and develop. This may be in through the provision of resources to complement the teaching and learning that we wish to see... Continue Reading →
One of the key differences that exist between learning environments in primary school classrooms and those in many secondary schools is the use of the classroom display space. Too often secondary school classrooms can be uninspiring places to walk into, so spare a thought for the students who have to put up with it. To... Continue Reading →
When it comes to discussing formative assessment, despite understanding its need and purpose, teachers are often challenged by there not being enough time to use formative assessment to give students meaningful feedback. Checklists are an excellent tool to use with students of all ages to give effective feedback in the classroom. Checklists can be used... Continue Reading →
In every school there are teachers who may be fabulous and make teachers who are good look quite ordinary in comparison. In so many ways it is wonderful to have committed great teachers who may go beyond the norm in delivering their classes, communicating with parents and contributing to the school as a whole. There... Continue Reading →
