Episode 98: This week on TDaPE I'm joined by Shannen Doherty, Atul Rana, Neil Almond and Jonny Hall for an exploration of the utility of manipulatives, both virtual and physical, in the mathematics classroom. Based on the panel from MathsConf30, I ask our panellists; Are manipulatives worth it? Do manipulatives have to be physical? Which manipulative has the greatest versatility across school mathematics? and much more. Wherever your teach, whatever you teach, whether you're new to the profession or an experienced senior leader, you won't want to miss this one... Subscribe to the TDaPE YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4RLzsG-mznn1U_tZc8P4-Q  Support us on Ko-Fi: www.ko-fi.com/tdape 

Neil Almond, a teacher and co-creator of AI Education newsletter, explores the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. The podcast delves into the definition and purpose of AI, its use in lesson planning, generating diagrams, and reducing teacher workload. They also discuss the limitations of AI in generating accurate and unbiased content, emphasizing the importance of checking for accuracy and biases. Overall, a fascinating discussion on the role of AI in education.

This episode features Adam Smith, an educator specializing in real estate education; Elliot Morgan, known for his focus on educational strategies; and Neil Almond, dedicated to enhancing learning experiences. They dive into effective educational interventions, discussing key strategies to implement them successfully. The trio emphasizes the importance of tailored support, early interventions, and innovative models like the 'third teacher.' They also explore the role of AI in revolutionizing math tutoring and advocate for clear goals and collaborative approaches in educational settings.

In this engaging discussion, Dave Taylor, an expert in primary education strategies, and Neil Almond, a seasoned professional in educational techniques, dive into the world of Backward Faded Examples. They break down this innovative teaching method, focusing on its benefits for enhancing problem-solving skills in mathematics. The duo emphasizes the delicate balance of cognitive load and the importance of tailored prompts to foster independent reasoning. They also highlight potential pitfalls and share valuable insights on adapting teaching materials to meet diverse student needs.

In this insightful discussion, educators Chris Such and Neil Almond tackle pressing issues in primary education. They explore the significance of personalized 1:1 reading strategies to address individual student needs. With AI's growing role, they discuss its potential benefits and challenges in classrooms, including data privacy. The duo also examines the hurdles facing the new Labour government and the DfE regarding educational reforms and assessment methods, raising crucial points for the future of teaching.

Neil Almond, an expert in reading comprehension and primary education, uncovers the complexities of how children understand text. He challenges the notion that reading is merely skill-based, emphasizing the importance of integrated teaching methods. Almond highlights the vital role of prior knowledge and background information in comprehension. He shares effective classroom strategies such as comprehension monitoring and self-questioning. Additionally, he introduces a five-step process for teaching summarization, aiming to enhance students' independent thinking.

Neil Almond, an expert in variation theory, discusses its application in education research. Topics include analyzing students' experiences with three-digit subtraction tasks, the intersection of variation theory with cognitive load theory and direct instruction, and the importance of contrast, separation, and fusion in enhancing learners' understanding.

Neil Almond and Lloyd Williams-Jones share their expertise in creating positive learning environments and effective assessment strategies in primary education. They discuss the importance of fostering inclusivity and the role of communication in collaborative teaching. Key tactics for differentiating instruction to cater to diverse student needs are explored, along with innovative techniques for monitoring student progress. With personal anecdotes and practical tips, they aim to empower both new and seasoned educators in their teaching journeys.

Neil Almond, an expert in primary education assessment, and Christopher Such, a specialist in early learning methodologies, dive into the transformative shifts in Key Stage 1 writing assessments. They discuss the recent removal of KS1 SATs, emphasizing how this opens the door for schools to enhance reading evaluations. Key topics include innovative teaching strategies like 'colourful semantics' to teach sentence structure and the importance of holistic assessments that consider students' overall writing development, from handwriting to creativity.

Neil Almond, an expert in primary education assessment, teams up with Christopher Such, a knowledgeable figure in educational policy, to discuss the transformative changes in Key Stage 1 reading assessment. They explore the exciting removal of KS1 SATs, allowing schools to rethink evaluation methods. The duo delves into the challenges teachers face with diverse reading abilities and emphasizes strategies for effective instruction. They also highlight the importance of fostering engagement in early reading while ensuring meaningful assessments that promote genuine learning over bureaucratic requirements.