We are all familiar with the summative, Ofsted model of lesson observation where performance is judged according to external criteria. However, used formatively and creatively, lesson observation is a process that can support and professionally develop the observer as much as the observed. Observing colleagues teach and allowing them to observe us teach are among the most valuable and effective ways of improving our own practice. This is a practical book for all teachers. It covers being observed; learning to be a good observer - whether that's to coach the colleague you are observing, to learn from what you see or to assess performance; participant observation; pair and trio observation; feedback; pupil observation and personalising observation for your own school/department/subject.
All teachers look to deliver inspiring, innovative and imaginative lessons. What better way to engage students and help them learn more effectively? Roy Watson-Davis draws on a deep well of creativity and on his experience as an AST and mentor to share numerous suggestions for original, inventive approaches to lessons. Use his ideas as starting points for your own brain waves, or import and adapt them for your own classroom. As well as creative starters, 'kernels' and closers, sections of the book are devoted to questioning technique, active learning, technology, revision and teamwork. Roy aims to stimulate and support creative practice by challenging you to move out of your comfort zones: try pegging maths equations across your room washing-line-style, or adopting 'the fruit bowl approach', or how about delivering a lesson in costume? Take the plunge, recharge your batteries and watch your students' enthusiasm increase.
In England 'outstanding' is the term Ofsted uses to describe the very best lessons. Teaching outstanding lessons is an aspiration all teachers share, not least because of the buzz they get from knowing that they have made a significant impact on their students. In highly successful lessons students are better motivated, engaged and interested. They make excellent progress and their attainment levels improve. This cartoon-illustrated Pocketbook, written in clear, concise language for maximum impact, is about how to teach 'stunning lessons that will make an impression on your pupils and knock the socks off your observers'. It begins by scotching some of the myths about what inspectors expect to see in a top-notch lesson, focusing instead on the reality. Areas covered encompass: developing good relationships with pupils and seeking student feedback; planning great lessons, including objectives, starters, activities and review; six steps to pupil independence; the use of praise and aspects of AfL to harness 'the X factor'; effective use of resources; expanding your repertoire of teaching techniques; communication skills; how to motivate students; using plenaries, group work, thinking skills and behaviour management techniques. The final chapter includes a helpful self-audit and offers advice on where to seek inspiration and on what reviewers are looking for in lesson observations. Author Caroline Bentley-Davies has been a middle leader in three schools, a Local Authority Education Adviser and an educational consultant in the UK and overseas. She has run demonstration lessons in over 80 schools and conducts training sessions for teachers across a range of subject areas. "A wonderfully refreshing read! Makes delivering outstanding learning for students of all ages accessible and possible for every teacher." Vanessa Lea, Assistant Head (Teaching and Learning), The Elizabeth Woodville School "Caroline presents a wealth of relevant and motivating tips to raise the quality of teaching . This book will be a source of inspiration and reassurance for teachers at any st
This third edition of the Head of Department's Pocketbook will support middle leaders in both primary and secondary schools in carrying out their jobs confidently and efficiently. Authors Brin Best and Will Thomas know from experience that managing diverse teams in a climate of inflated performance expectations is no easy task. They devote a section of the Pocketbook to leadership and management, encompassing vision, goals and creativity, as well as challenging adult behaviours, up-skilling, influencing and motivating colleagues. A later chapter called 'Raising Student Achievement' looks at excellence in the classroom and includes material on enriching and supporting learning, data use and lesson planning. Effective documentation and raising the profile of your department or curriculum area are also explored. Whether you're new to middle leadership or a seasoned hand, you'll find the self-evaluation checklist at the end of the book a useful professional development tool.
Just like teachers, TAs need proper induction, training and career development opportunities. The Teaching Assistant's Pocketbook supports this need by offering an accessible guide to this varied role. If you're new to the job, what exactly can you expect when you start out in a new school? If you're an old hand, what are your career development opportunities? Sections on assisting the teacher, assisting pupils and assisting the school are full of practical information, tips and strategies for new and experienced TAs. Dot Constable covers the nuts and bolts of day-to-day practice (eg: policies and procedures; SEN and support strategies; joint planning; assessment, recording and reporting; making and organising resources etc) but also addresses nitty gritty realities: how do you keep pupils on task and what do you do if relations between you and the teacher are strained? Breathe a sigh of relief, it's all here. ""A concise and easily accessible resource. A must for new and experienced teaching assistants" " -Anna Gibbs, Headteacher, Lancot Lower School " "Clear and comprehensive ideas and advice which cover all aspects of being a TA. A super, little, usable book." " -Gill Edgar, Head of KS4, Abberley Street PRU, Dudle
Never before have we had access to such a flood of information - internet, tv, radio, mobile phones, etc. But what strategies are children developing to screen it all? They can access information and absorb it as entertainment, but they often lack the skills to approach it critically. For our students to flourish in the information age, it's crucial that we teach them to think. Using the PRICE taxonomy - Processing information, Reasoning, Inquiry, Creative thinking and Evaluation, Anne de A'Echevarria and Ian Patience identify a range of 'thinking problems'. Their five related sections of practical 'thinking tools' will inspire teachers and students alike: there's a wealth of dynamic material for individual lessons and for infusing thinking across the curriculum. The final chapter moves from the 'what' to the 'how' - the craft of teaching thinking. Travel with your students out of the comfort zone into the exciting landscape of the learning zone.
Effective language learning depends on effective instruction. In order to investigate whether or not this is taking place, teachers' classroom pedagogical practices, both in-service and pre-service, are frequently monitored by means of observation and feedback. However, research indicates that although this process has potential value for teacher learning and development, there are also a number of attendant problems and it is therefore important that practitioners share their experience with others in the field in order to expand the existing knowledge base. This volume investigates participant experiences, looking beyond the materials used and examining the way in which language teachers are evaluated and supported throughout their careers. Particular attention is given to the practices and frameworks involved, outlining key approaches and discussing tools for investigation and collaboration. The book highlights the importance of the use of talk to foster reflection and teacher learning, the value of learning from experienced others and the importance of giving voice to all those involved in the process of development and evaluation.
Today the myriad skills needed to be an amazing middle leader in schools can seem mind-boggling. What's more Middle Leaders are taking up the leadership reins after gaining experience for far fewer years than ever before.Whether you are new to this role or are more experienced and aspiring to become a school leader, this book will give you the vital information you need in order to understand what is really important about your role and how to improve your key skills.
' "I really like it when we can talk in class," says Kelly in Year 8, grinning from ear to ear when I suggest a group activity on a grey Monday morning. Although I suspect that she might like it for the wrong reasons, I know that there is a lot for her - and the other 29 students in the class - to learn in a structured co-operative learning context.' Gael Luzet's Pocketbook about small group work focuses on how 'the power of more than one' can transform learning. Like all good teaching and learning strategies, successful collaborative learning relies on meticulous planning and careful delivery, both of which are discussed here. Ideas for basic collaborative activities are included as well as practical examples of how to use various high impact strategies in lessons. You begin to see what lies behind Vygotsky's words: 'The one who does the talking does the learning'. And assessing and evaluating? Process and product; individual and team contributions; formative and summative approaches - they're all covered.
