Mr Barton Maths Podcast

Trevor is AQA’s Chief Examiner for the Maths GCSE. We spoke about when the GCSE maths writing process starts, who is involved, what makes a good question and what makes a bad question, what are the difficulties, how exams are marked, and much more. This is a great listen now we have finally made it through the first new specification GCSE cohort, and essential listening as we prepare for the next! For more information about today’s guest, plus links to the websites, resources and ideas they mention, please visit the show notes page: http://www.mrbartonmaths.com/blog/chief-examiner-trevor-senior-how-gcse-maths-exams-are-written/ 

Former science teacher Nick Rose discusses inducing cognitive conflict, dangers of differentiation, the validity of growth mindset, and dispelling misconceptions in teaching math and science. They explore the challenges of addressing abstract concepts, promoting growth mindset, and navigating classroom dynamics.

Ed returns to the show following the launch of his book Yes, but why? Teaching for Understanding in Maths. This time around we spoke about why maths puzzles are important, what makes a good puzzle, how maths lessons are taught in Japan, what we can learn from this approach, and how much student discussion should happen during examples. For more information about today’s guest, plus links to the websites, resources and ideas they mention, please visit the show notes page: http://www.mrbartonmaths.com/blog/ed-southall-part-2-puzzles-and-lessons-from-japan/ 

Former math teacher Kris Boulton shares insights on planning lessons, Siegfried Englemann's influence, successful interleaving, and differentiation. Emphasizing sequences over individual lessons, he discusses strategies for effective teaching methods and the role of cognitive science in enhancing student understanding and knowledge transfer.

Robert and Elizabeth Bjork, pioneers in memory and teaching, discuss why forgetting is vital, how tests benefit learning, and the importance of making learning difficult. They explore optimal spacing schedules, successful interleaving, and effective strategies for memory retention and deep learning.

Dani Quinn, the Head of Maths at Michaela Community School, returns! In the follow-up to the controversial first interview we spoke about the behaviour policy at Michaela, the practice of drilling, teaching for understanding and the staff culture. I wonder if I will get told to "go to hell" as a result of this one. For more information about today’s guest, plus links to the websites, resources and ideas they mention, please visit the show notes page: http://www.mrbartonmaths.com/blog/dani-quinn-part-2-michaela-school-behaviour-drills-culture/ 

Daisy Christodoulou, a leading assessment figure, discusses good assessment practices, planning examples, multiple choice questions, dangers of past papers, and comparative judgment in education. The conversation provides valuable insights for teachers on improving assessment strategies for better student outcomes.

Greg Ashman, Head of maths in Australia, discusses the implications of Cognitive Load Theory for teaching and why he prefers direct instruction over inquiry-based learning. Topics include effective lesson planning, joint planning, lesson structure, assessment, and optimizing learning through Cognitive Load Theory.

Paul Rowlandson, a math teacher and bar modeling expert, discusses effective questioning, teacher training, insights from Shanghai and Tokyo trips, and the importance of bar modeling in teaching math. He highlights strategies for overcoming obstacles in implementing bar modeling, emphasizing the significance of numeracy skills, and enhancing student learning through thoughtful questioning. The podcast sheds light on teaching practices in different countries, effective teacher training strategies, and the impact of White Rose Maths Hub on education.

Tom is the UK's leading figure on behaviour in schools, and the founder of ResearchEd. We spoke about in depth about managing behaviour in the classroom, including addressing some common myths. We also spoke about how best to tackle teacher workload, and what Tom considers to be the most important pieces of educational research. For more information about today’s guest, plus links to the websites, resources and ideas they mention, please visit the show notes page: http://www.mrbartonmaths.com/blog/tom-bennett-behaviour-teacher-workload-and-researched/