Creating a positive learning environment is essential for fostering both student well-being and academic achievement. Positive learning environments are not merely physical spaces but are grounded in supportive relationships, effective resource use, shared values, and established expectations. They can be measured using performance criteria such as ensuring a safe and motivating atmosphere, establishing high expectations […]

Learner-centered teaching is a dynamic and effective educational approach focused on actively engaging students in the learning process and addressing their individual needs. It prioritizes the strengths, interests, and unique learning styles of students, empowering them to take ownership of their educational journey. This article explores how educators can demonstrate learner-centered teaching by meeting specific […]

Assessment for learning (AfL) is a continuous process that enhances teaching and learning by using assessments as tools to improve student outcomes. Effective use of AfL requires varied assessment strategies, data analysis to inform instructional practices, and clear communication of results to parents. Below is a detailed exploration of these performance criteria, supported by real-life […]

Benchmark (interim) assessment Interim assessments are often carried out at numerous intervals throughout the school year and provide ongoing data regarding a student’s performance. By carrying out regular assessments, teachers can monitor a student’s performance and pick up on any issues as they arise. Although an interim assessment indicates how a student’s summative assessment will […]

Attendance and punctuality: Whether in school or work, you learn and accomplish most when you show up, on time and prepared. You can’t learn if you’re not there! And when you come late, it’s unlikely that you’re really ready to do your best work. Good attendance and punctuality are two important pieces of a good […]

101. Gallery Walk Definition A gallery walk involves a teacher placing stimulus questions on flip chart paper (butcher’s paper) around the walls of the classroom. The charts the teacher has put up are stations that students will stop at during the activity. The teacher places students into groups. If there are 5 stations around the […]

91. Word Wall Definition Word walls are sections on the walls of a classroom where teachers and students can record new vocabulary, quotes or key terms they encounter during a unit of work. Benefits Word walls can be visible evidence of progression through a unit. Students can refer to the word walls when trying to […]

81. Brainstorming Definition Brainstorming involves asking students to come up with their initial thoughts on an issue. The thoughts do not have to be refined or correct. Instead, the students should use the brainstorming time to get their mind flowing and discussion started. Usually, this activity takes place using flip chart / butcher’s paper. Benefits […]

71. Snowball Discussions Definition Snowball discussions are another twist on the think-pair-share method. For snowball discussions, students start in pairs and share their thoughts and ideas together. Then, the pairs join up with another pair to create a group of four. These four people share thoughts together, compare notes, debate ideas, and come up with […]

61. Graphic Organizers Definition Graphic organizers are visual aids in the classroom designed to help students visualize and conceptualize ideas and their relationships with other ideas. Examples of graphic organizers include flowcharts, mind maps and venn diagrams. Use them to help students think more deeply about topics. Benefits Very useful for students who are visual […]