Thanks to Rachel Hawkes for this. Who is it for? This is an idea borrowed from our excellent Head of Drama and adapted for various foreign languages classes at KS3 – 5 and of all abilities. It reduces anxiety, promotes concentration, develops memory skills, and is fun! Outline of idea (what you wanted to do) …
Jan
11
Checking understanding after an oral introduction
Thanks to Irayna Owen for this. Who is it for? This is a very quick and easy method of checking group understanding of what you have been discussing or introducing orally – I use it with Key stage 3 low ability groups, but I would imagine anyone could use it. Outline of idea (What you …
Jan
10
ITT, NQT & GTP classroom climate
As part of Voyager's 'new staff induction' programme, teachers have been encouraged to read 'The Hay McBer report' (2000). Despite being almost 11 years old, the report is still a useful tool for new staff to use to adapt, modify and improve their learning environments. New staff have been encouraged to focus their attentions on …
Jan
10
"The perfect Ofsted Lesson"
It appears that I was a good boy in 2011 because Father Christmas gave me a copy of “The perfect Ofsted lesson” by Jackie Beere over the Christmas break!!! What a fantastic read it is. Irrespective of your teaching experience this book is incredibly inspiring and written with a totally natural approach to teaching. This …
Dec
04
Design and technology – top trumps
Following the successful use of Science Top Trumps, Design & Technology are attempting to go one better!!! D/T have modified the Top Trump and now believe it will support students when planning, selecting tools and equipment and using tools safely. Staff in TVAs Design & Technology department were searching for an answer to the dilemma …
Dec
04
Science & Technology – Inter school rocket competition
Following the success of inter school ‘water rockets’, TVA and Marshfields have redesigned the rocket launcher. Competitions start in two weeks. The new launcher has meant a larger investment in time and money, to produce longer term products that are all made to the same specification across all schools. Students from all Key stages (levels 2—8) …
Nov
30
Argument Chains
As Christmas approaches I was thinking about a way I could get some nice decorations made for my classroom in a way that would also help my Year 11s to learn something. The result was “Argument Chains”, a version of a simple paper chain that also visually represents a written argument. Who's it for? Anyone …