Good Practice Database >> Developing Thinking Skills Through the Use of Concept Cartoons

LA	Rhondda Cynon Taf	School Name	Caegarw Primary School

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What was the focus for improvement?
• To use concept cartoons as a means of assessment across all curriculum areas, particularly in Science and Mathematics
• To use concept cartoon as a means of improving reasoning skills
• To use concept cartoons as an opportunity to extend and encourage use of key vocabulary

What did we do?
• Introduced a number of concept cartoons in a range of subjects including science, mathematics, religious education and PSE

What were the outcomes?
• The use of concept cartoons enabled pupils to work effectively in groups
• The use of the concept cartoon enabled all pupils to voice an opinion on an issue. It was particularly helpful to help less confident children to voice an opinion
• The strategy encouraged more time for pupils to question information and to reflect on their learning

What evidence have we collected to demonstrate improvements?
• Photographs of activity

What have we learnt about teaching practice and pupils learning?
• Implementing thinking skills strategies, such as a ‘concept cartoon’, has had a positive impact on the learning environment
• A ‘concept cartoon’ is a useful strategy to encourage pupils to question and challenge information, to justify their point of view and to reflect on their learning

What we aim to do next
• Develop further ‘concept cartoon’ activities to use with pupils
• As many of the children found it difficult to given reason for choosing a particular person with whom to agree, it is our intention to develop further pupils’ reasoning skills

Supporting Documentation
1. PowerPoint - outlining project and photographs of pupils engaged in activities
2. Concept Cartoon – magnets
3. Concept Cartoon – adding two digit numbers
4. Concept Cartoon – healthy eating
5. Concept Cartoon – keep a drink cool

 

 

 

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