Good Practice Database >> DCELLS Thinking Skills Project
| LA | Bridgend | School Name | Newton Primary School |
|---|
What was the focus for improvement?
To focus on three related areas to assist in the development of the skills curriculum within KS2. The areas chosen were:
1. Developing success criteria (Thinking skills)
2. Peer discussion (Assessment for learning)
3. Peer assessment (Assessment for learning)
What did we do?
We used learning logs as a focal point to develop the three areas. We developed a peer assessment system using our own format which allowed for the use of success criteria through peer discussion.
We used the Newton ‘PIE’ system.
P – Presentation I – Interest E – Effort.
(5 Marks) (10 Marks) (Effort)
Each week the pupils presented and discussed the quality of each others work in small groups. Scores were decided and the segments of the pie charts were coloured in accordingly. Each pupil attached a small PIE score chart to their work. Every group produced a winner and the class voted on the overall ‘Learning log of the week’.
What were the outcomes?
-This allowed for pupils to discuss, present and assess each others learning log tasks using a structured and clear format. Group discussion skills were improved.
- More pupils completed their home based tasks, and they enjoyed doing so.
- Pupils had a better understanding of how to present their work effectively.
- This activity encouraged research skills (Library, internet, discussion with adults)
- Home school links were strengthened.
- Pupils began to discuss how to improve their work.
What evidence have we collected to demonstrate improvements?
Every class and pupil in KS2 has individual learning logs as a source of evidence.
Progression and improvement levels are clearly visible.
What have learnt about teaching practice and pupils learning?
Pupils respond well to working in groups and discussing the work they have produced. Clear success criteria needs to be set for this method to work consistently. Fairness when assessing, and empathy for the work of others are values that will be developed. Pupils really enjoyed these tasks and many key skills were enhanced.
What we aim to do next
Consolidate this method of teaching and learning over the next year. Reflection triangles may be used in years 5&6.