Monthly Archives: February 2014

Bright Spots: 28th February 2014

Posted on February 28, 2014 by classteaching

Whilst walking around the school today, going in to classrooms, I came across the following bright spots, which I thought I would share. In Jane Squire’s RE classroom, I saw this stuck on every desk: This was a great way … Continue reading →

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Challenge & Success for all

Posted on February 27, 2014 by classteaching

The 15 minute forum tonight was led by Steph Holt – looking at how we can ensure high levels of challenge during lessons.  She started the session by reminding us of the fact that it’s unfortunate that often when you … Continue reading →

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Making explanations stick

Posted on February 24, 2014 by classteaching

Last weekend a twitter conversation resulted in our teaching ‘Big 4’ evolving into 5 – Challenge, explanation, modelling, questioning & feedback.  More can be read on this here. If I’m honest, I haven’t really given a huge amount of thought … Continue reading →

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The Evolution of ‘The Big 4’

Posted on February 16, 2014 by classteaching

Over the past year or so, I’ve been very keen on the idea of developing a ‘tight but loose’ approach to teaching across my school.  By that I mean highlighting a few key pedagogical principles that are key to great … Continue reading →

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Marking. Less is more?

Posted on February 11, 2014 by classteaching

DHS maths Deputy Leader Emma McCann has decided to dip her toes into the world of blogging, with this great article on marking. Yet another bright spot! I just want to start by warning you: I have read loads but … Continue reading →

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Using Padlet

Posted on February 11, 2014 by classteaching

English NQT Emma Morgan has been using Padlet to help her students revise.  For those of you who aren’t familiar with Padlet, it is basically a blank wall that you set up (online!). You or anyone else can then post … Continue reading →

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Bright Spots: 10th February 2014

Posted on February 10, 2014 by classteaching

Whilst walking around the school today, the following bright spots were found. In Geography, Ben Crockett was showing his Y8 students the ‘Austin’s Butterfly’ video by Ron Berger, to introduce the idea of peer critique and feedback.  If you haven’t … Continue reading →

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Perfect Practice Makes Perfect

Posted on February 9, 2014 by classteaching

Over the weekend, I came across this video of a 3 year old American lad called Titus, doing some pretty impressive stuff with a basketball hoop: Now, many people would describe this as ‘natural talent’.  However, anyone who has read … Continue reading →

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Promoting Structured Classroom Discussion

Posted on February 6, 2014 by classteaching

The 15 Minute Forum tonight was led by Andy Tharby. Andy was sharing a technique that he uses a great deal to promote a structured classroom dialogue and discussion.  It involves students thinking about and then justifying where their viewpoint … Continue reading →

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Reflecting on Mindset

Posted on February 2, 2014 by classteaching

Following our INSET day last week, DHS drama teacher and occasional guest blogger Lesley Graney has been reflecting on her mindset…..and that of her students. Enjoy…. It been a while since I have made parallels between my home life and … Continue reading →

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