Teaching models
English teaching requires a mixture of:
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direct teaching
to help pupils learn new skills and procedures
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cognitive teaching and learning
to help pupils process information and think creatively
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social teaching and learning such as group and guided learning in which pupils collaborate to construct new knowledge for themselves.
These models encompass a varied repertoire of teaching skills and techniques.
Teaching repertoire
The skills and techniques that the English teacher needs to be able to call on so that pupils learn effectively include:
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activating prior knowledge
so that pupils' learning can develop from what they already know
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modelling
to make explicit the conventions of language and texts and the process of their construction, and to help pupils adapt them in creative and purposeful ways
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scaffolding
to support pupils' early efforts and build security and confidence
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explanation
to clarify and exemplify the best ways of working
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questioning
to probe, draw out or extend pupils' thinking
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exploration
to encourage critical thinking and generalisation
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investigation
to encourage enquiry and self-help
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discussion and dialogue
to shape and challenge developing ideas
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Assessment for learning
to help pupils identify what they have learned and to plan their next steps.
