University Learning in SchoolsDo we learn better through talking or writing? How can we use talking and writing better for learning?

Michael McKeigueLampton Academy

Module rationale• We settled on our theme because we felt that student discussions are often

vague, lack focus and are insufficiently challenging. Research indicates that students can be taught to be more purposeful in discussion and also that the attraction of social media can be harnessed to develop student’s discussion skills.

• We hoped that that by providing a structure, students could engage in more productive discussions, develop a more exploratory mindset and take greater ownership of their learning. We also hoped for students to explore war poetry and poetic technique in preparation for GCSE.

• The module was originally designed to fit a half-term but was shortened to fit the teaching time available. It would be useful to extend the module so the skills developed could be fully embedded in regular student practise.

Module overview

• 14 lesson SOW with individual lesson plans and PowerPoint presentations.

• All text resources needed are included (handouts, poems, discussion transcripts, Edmodo user guide)

• The module will require regular access to computer facilities and to voice recording equipment

Module overview

• Content covers a range of poets– Wilfred Owen, Jessie Pope, Siegfried Sassoon, Tennyson

• A range of skills developed – analytical skills, exploring skills, self-reflective skills

• Students’ knowledge of the background to WW1 and poetic technique cemented and extended

Module overview – Requirements and resources

• 14 lesson SOW with individual lesson plans and PowerPoint presentations.

• All text resources needed are included (handouts, poems, discussion transcripts, Edmodo user guide)

• The module will require regular access to computer facilities and to voice recording equipment

Structured Discussion

• Top tips for teachers– What we learned– What we recommend

• Key questions– How could this fit in to your context?– How is this similar/different to your existing units

of work?– What changes would you need to make?– What more information would you need

Objectives and outcomes

• Encouraging a more structured method for exploring texts

• Enhancing students’ ability to be self-reflective• Greater challenge for all

OutcomeA formally assessed task using skills and understanding acquired through the course

Feedback

Please complete the feedback form in your pack before you leave the session.

Thank you.