Promoting Independent Learning In The Primary Classroom


Book Description

This book argues that independence in the classroom should be seen as beneficial for learners and also for teachers. Jill Williams makes a compelling case for a climate in which decision making is valued, where children are enabled to solve problems and where children and adults respect each others point of view, arguing that this will be a climate in which independence flourishes. In turn the benefits in terms of teaching and learning will be apparent for both the children and the teachers.




EBOOK: Promoting Independent Learning in the Primary Classroom


Book Description

From birth, human beings are striving to make sense of the world. They learn through interaction, modelling first hand experience and independent action. Most children arrive at school with the notion that being independent and having the desire to take responsibility has been seen, in their homes, as a good thing. However, what often happens is that responsibility may be denied them in school and further bids for independence are viewed as negative behaviour. This book argues that independence in the classroom should be seen as beneficial for learners and also for teachers. Jill Williams makes a compelling case for a climate in which decision making is valued, where children are enabled to solve problems and where children and adults respect each others point of view, arguing that this will be a climate in which independence flourishes. In turn the benefits in terms of teaching and learning will be apparent for both the children and the teachers. The notion of independence in the classroom is explored through vivid cameos showing positive relationships between teachers and learners, inspirational classroom organization and management and examples of children taking their learning forward in an environment where they have choices. The careful monitoring, assessment and discussion of teaching and learning which is presented highlights the benefits for both learners and teachers when there is a focus on independence.




Learning for Themselves


Book Description

In a world of rapidly changing knowledge which requires new and transferable skills, classrooms are increasingly being viewed as places where pupils learn how to learn. In order to help pupils develop new skills, teachers must encourage them to work independently and manage themselves as learners. Learning for Themselves offers teachers a repertoire of effective strategies and frameworks to nurture independent learning. The chapters are organised into four broad areas: learning preferences thinking inquiry personal challenges. Each section includes learning tasks covering commonly addressed topics in primary school curriculums, with each task designed to be adapted by students and teachers to suit particular interests and a range of teaching and learning goals. Photocopiable learning proformas for each task, and additional proforma resources are included to assist teachers and pupils when planning, managing, monitoring and keeping records associated with independent learning. Saving valuable planning time for teachers, this book offers a creative and effective way to encourage pupil's independence and will appeal to all teachers who aim to equip their pupils with transferable skills.




Independent Learning


Book Description




Fostering Independent Learning


Book Description

Accessible, practical, and empowering, this book gives school professionals the tools to put students in charge of their own learning. Going beyond traditional "study skills" guides that focus on the mechanics of homework completion and test taking, the authors address the underlying psychological factors that influence academic success and lifelong learning. They provide step-by-step guidance and data-based interventions for helping each student develop a repertoire of problem-solving strategies in the areas of motivation, emotional responses to learning, behavior, time management, organization, memory, reading, writing, math, and more. In a large-size format with lay-flat binding to facilitate photocopying, the volume includes dozens of reproducible handouts and forms. This book is in The Guilford Practical Intervention in the Schools Series.




The Knowledge Gap


Book Description

The untold story of the root cause of America's education crisis--and the seemingly endless cycle of multigenerational poverty. It was only after years within the education reform movement that Natalie Wexler stumbled across a hidden explanation for our country's frustrating lack of progress when it comes to providing every child with a quality education. The problem wasn't one of the usual scapegoats: lazy teachers, shoddy facilities, lack of accountability. It was something no one was talking about: the elementary school curriculum's intense focus on decontextualized reading comprehension "skills" at the expense of actual knowledge. In the tradition of Dale Russakoff's The Prize and Dana Goldstein's The Teacher Wars, Wexler brings together history, research, and compelling characters to pull back the curtain on this fundamental flaw in our education system--one that fellow reformers, journalists, and policymakers have long overlooked, and of which the general public, including many parents, remains unaware. But The Knowledge Gap isn't just a story of what schools have gotten so wrong--it also follows innovative educators who are in the process of shedding their deeply ingrained habits, and describes the rewards that have come along: students who are not only excited to learn but are also acquiring the knowledge and vocabulary that will enable them to succeed. If we truly want to fix our education system and unlock the potential of our neediest children, we have no choice but to pay attention.




Reasons to Reason in Primary Maths and Science


Book Description

How can teachers help children to develop reasoning skills? What is reasoning and how do we teach it? Much is being said in schools and education about the importance of reasoning skills. This book explores what reasoning is and what it is not. It includes examples of how reasoning in primary mathematics and science classes can develop. It shows how a connection between the ′skills′ of mathematics and science can help children to gain a better understanding of reasoning. What is a conjecture What makes you think? What makes you think about your thinking? What does reasoning look like? With links to classroom practice and examples of effective teaching throughout, this book not only provides an exploration of what reasoning is and why it′s important—it also show you how to develop children′s reasoning skills in your classroom.




Culturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain


Book Description

A bold, brain-based teaching approach to culturally responsive instruction To close the achievement gap, diverse classrooms need a proven framework for optimizing student engagement. Culturally responsive instruction has shown promise, but many teachers have struggled with its implementation—until now. In this book, Zaretta Hammond draws on cutting-edge neuroscience research to offer an innovative approach for designing and implementing brain-compatible culturally responsive instruction. The book includes: Information on how one’s culture programs the brain to process data and affects learning relationships Ten “key moves” to build students’ learner operating systems and prepare them to become independent learners Prompts for action and valuable self-reflection




The Highly Effective Teacher


Book Description

What are the secrets to unlocking student success? And what can teachers do to get better at helping students develop deep understanding of content, attain higher-order thinking skills, and become secure, confident, and capable learners? In this book, teacher and professor Jeff Marshall showcases how teaching with intentionality answers these questions. Specifically, he introduces the Teacher Intentionality Practice Scale (TIPS), a framework for both supporting and measuring effective teaching. Taken together, the framework’s seven TIPs provide a research-based, classroom-tested guide to help teachers * create coherent, connected lessons; * use strategies and resources, including technology, that truly enhance learning; * organize a safe, respectful learning environment; * develop challenging and rigorous learning experiences; * promote interactive, thoughtful learning; * nurture a creative, problem-solving classroom culture; and * deliver feedback and formative assessment that inform teaching and learning. Marshall’s needs-assessment instrument can help teachers, working independently or in a cohort, determine the best starting point for improving their practice. Practical, straightforward rubrics for each TIP describe the various levels of teacher proficiency. Based on his own teaching experience and observations in hundreds of classrooms, Marshall also offers action tips for each framework component and a list of resources for further study. Written for teachers and leaders at all levels and in all content areas, The Highly Effective Teacher is a guidebook for thoughtful, intentional teaching with one goal: success for all students, in every classroom.




Learning Through Talk


Book Description

How to teach talk for learning is a practical handbook designed to help teachers and others working with 5 to 12 year olds develop some of the key skills that enable pupils to use talk effectively