Thinking Deeply about Primary Education

Elliot Morgan, an expert in education, discusses making learning more challenging. They explore what challenge is, the conditions surrounding learning, and how to sustain challenge over time. The podcast emphasizes the importance of pushing students out of their comfort zones and engaging them with tasks that promote deep knowledge.

In this engaging discussion, Kate Frood, a primary mathematics specialist with 40 years of experience, shares her insights on effective teaching strategies and the importance of fostering a love for math. She highlights her foundational principles for teaching, the value of fluency in learning, and innovative ways to support teachers in becoming more expert. Kate emphasizes the need for a positive attitude towards math, adaptive teaching practices, and engaging methods to make complex concepts accessible to young learners.

Lydia Grove, Editor at Teach Primary, shares her insights on how teachers can successfully navigate the world of educational publishing. She discusses what magazines seek in articles and common pitfalls for new authors. The conversation emphasizes the importance of sharing classroom experiences and adapting writing for diverse audiences. Lydia also offers practical tips on writing concisely without sacrificing quality, encouraging educators to voice their expertise and enhance their teaching practice through well-crafted articles.

Leisa Grace Wilson, a passionate languages teacher and editorial director of Teach Middle East, dives into the world of teacher writing. She shares how educators can get published while maintaining their authentic voice. Balancing teaching and writing is crucial, as is the need for persistence in outreach to busy editors. The conversation also touches on the emotional impact of human writing versus AI limitations, highlighting the importance of genuine storytelling in education. Get ready to be inspired to reflect on your own teaching journey!

Aimee Tinkler, an expert in education, delves into the unique dynamics of small schools. She discusses the challenges of leadership, such as tight budgets and mixed-age classrooms, emphasizing the strong relationships built with students and families. Aimee highlights creative feedback strategies and the balance required in teaching diverse learners. The conversation also touches on professional development hurdles faced by small schools and introduces an initiative aimed at fostering collaboration among educators. Tune in for valuable insights into small-school pedagogy!

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.

Reid Smith, an experienced educator from regional Victoria, shares insights on the critical connection between background knowledge and reading comprehension. He dives into research findings that reveal how prior knowledge enhances understanding and performance. Alongside Christopher Such, they explore effective teaching strategies that prioritize knowledge-building and the selection of appropriate texts for students. This discussion highlights the importance of adapting instructional methods to cater to diverse learning needs, particularly for younger readers.

Stuart Welsh, a secondary school teacher, shares invaluable insights about the foundational role of counting in mathematics. He discusses essential principles such as one-to-one correspondence and stable order. Stuart highlights common misconceptions students have about counting and when they should learn these skills. He also provides engaging strategies to help children connect number names with their symbols, emphasizing how early counting experiences shape their mathematical understanding. A must-listen for educators at all levels!

Sarah Larsen and Tom Brassington, dedicated geography teachers, share their expertise on teaching geography effectively. They highlight the vital role of vocabulary in lessons, ensuring students grasp key concepts. The duo discusses the significance of everyday geography and how it influences daily decision-making. They also stress the importance of using varied imagery to enhance understanding and explore Japan’s disaster preparedness as a case study. Their insights provide valuable strategies for both new and seasoned educators.

Join Shannen Doherty, a primary school teacher and journal contributor, and Neil Almond, an educator focused on handwriting, as they dive into intriguing educational topics. They tackle the relevance of cursive writing in the classroom and its impact on children's legibility. The conversation shifts to strategies for teaching in small, mixed-age classrooms, sharing personal insights on curriculum planning. Lastly, they debate the necessity of subject leader folders, advocating for efficient documentation methods that enhance student learning. A thought-provoking discussion awaits!