Secondary

Retrieval strategies in the classroom

In my previous three blogs, I have addressed the power of retrieval practice, using retrieval alongside spaced practice and how to use retrieval to self-regulate learning. Here, I am going to highlight some of the key strategies I use in my lessons. With all of these strategies… Read More

Getting GCSE maths revision right!

The run up to GCSEs can be a very difficult time for Year 11 students. Often, they are still learning new material but are aware of the need to practice and consolidate earlier learning so they are ready for their examinations. This year’s Year 11 students may feel even… Read More

Developing metacognitive skills with retrieval practice

One of the most challenging aspects of teaching is equipping students to be able to learn effectively on their own, outside of the classroom. This is particularly difficult when it comes to equipping students with the tools for effective revision. In this blog I will explore how we can equip… Read More

Retrieval practice and spaced practice

During my first post, I outline some of the many benefits of retrieval practice and why it should be used regularly in lessons to enhance students’ learning. In this post, I am going to discuss the importance of spacing out retrieval and how this supports memory retention. Building schema … Read More

Beyond the traditional boycott narrative – time for change, action not words

In December 1955 Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat when asked. All the other Black people on the bus complied but she did not. The image of a quiet respectable old lady sits comfortably in the collective popular imagination of the civil rights movement. This simple narrative… Read More

Global history broadens horizons

Laura Aitken-Burt, co-author of Knowing History second edition, explains the importance of teaching global history to your students, and how you can integrate this into your KS3 curriculum. Why is it crucial that all students learn about global history? History should be about broadening horizons, widening perspectives and giving… Read More

Using Complete Revision and Practice as a GCSE course companion

Who is your worst critic? Well, for me, it is my daughter Annie. She is exactly the target audience for the Collins Complete Revision & Practice series; I was lucky to be commissioned to work on the series. Last August, I had the excitement to re-draft the print edition of… Read More

How to develop brilliant reading at KS3

Reading is in vogue at the moment – and rightly so! Several factors have raised the priority of reading in schools. The number of students reading at home has slowly dwindled as the number of distractions has dramatically increased. Alongside this, the GCSE changes have also increased KS3 reading demand… Read More

How to develop brilliant reading at KS3

Reading is in vogue at the moment – and rightly so! Several factors have raised the priority of reading in schools. The number of students reading at home has slowly dwindled as the number of distractions has dramatically increased. Alongside this, the GCSE changes have also increased KS3 reading demand… Read More

Understanding and applying metacognition in your teaching

You might have heard of metacognition. This aspect of learning has been described as one of the most effective educational interventions that we can use. Read More