As part of my NCETM course we had the opportunity to watch some videos of teachers from Shanghai teaching some concepts.
It struck me the language they were using even for topics such as introducing what an angle is. New words would be introduced early on, clearly defined, backed up with examples and reinforced with students applying the word in context.
Consistent high level language that is built on as the topic deepens can then be used to avoid misconceptions and gives students and teachers a common language to be able to communicate effectively.
🔊 Listen:
Becoming educated speaking to Michael Child's about his book The Sweet Spot. In the podcast the underlying focus was on optimizing teaching whether through improving your classroom layout or ensuring time is better spent on improving explanations than peeling displays for your classroom. Listen here.
📚 Read:
My blog on the benefits of using Ratio tables in the classroom. Over the next few weeks I will be posting some examples of how I use them to teach specific topics, first up is Speed, Distance, Time. Read it here.