Hot Topics 

We have decided to establish a new blog specifically to address hot topics. By this we mean those matters that might arise locally or nationally that spark curiosity or debate. Please do read and without prejudice, respond to any of the posts. Your views are valuable to us and will help us to continue on our journey of improvement. Mr H

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Hot Topic, spelling, testing and grading

Spelling and a little bit about testing The national curriculum  in England includes spelling lists for each year group as well as spelling rules and patterns to be learned in each year. At Taddington  this will mean: ♦ Weekly spellings based on a pattern or rule from the Y1-Y6 programme of study (for example: words with –igh) ♦ Pupils will be tested ( we like to call it a 'quiz') twice on the same spellings (weekly)  ♦ 10-15 minute teaching slots during the week to learn and practise spelling rules and patterns ( in KS1 this is in addition to daily phonics and writing sessions where spelling is also taught) ♦ Pupils will also be taught useful strategies to help with spelling. ♦ Each child having a spelling zapper or word book in class to help them learn words from the year group list (common words such as certain, favourite) ♦ 10 -15 minute slots during the week to work with a spelling partner. • The ‘zapper' will have nine words which pupils need to learn and th
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The importance of Growth Mindset

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The importance of a growth mindset Feedback will be most effective when students are fully engaged in learning. Good learners, we know, tend to attribute both failure and success to internal, unstable causes—in other words, they know that it is within their power to get better.  It’s therefore essential that teachers help students understand that  “ability” is not a fixed quantity . Students must understand that they are  not  born with talent (or lack of it) and that their personalities do  not  determine whether or not they are “good at math” or “good at writing.” Rather, ability is incremental. The harder you work, the smarter you get. Once students begin to understand this “growth mindset” as Carol Dweck calls it, students are much more likely to embrace feedback from their teachers. Learn more about techniques for effective feedback.  Bring Dylan to your school , or visit  our store  for professional development packs, books, and resources. And look for  professional develo
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Peer massage

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Today we have introduced peer massage in school.  A number of studies have been done in the UK using different methodologies. The outcomes from the studies show that the main benefits of the MISP are: · Improved calmness and concentration · Increased self-confidence and self-esteem · Improved social skills with a greater number of relationships/friendships with peers and adults · Children feel happier and more relaxed · A reduction in aggressive behaviour and bullying · A more positive attitude and greater engagement with learning · Improved ability to work in groups and independently · Greater creativity and problem solving · Increased awareness of the body and signs of stress and anxiety Please find below a link to the research behind the programme http://www.touchlinetraining.co.uk/downloads/MISP_research_overview2015.aspx Here you will also find images of the massage techniques should you wish to try these out at home !
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