Teaching and Learning: The WSE Way

In lessons, we demonstrate our aspiration for students by: directing students' attention - making sure that they're paying attention to what they need to be; designing lesson tasks that encourage students to think hard; ensuring that all students participate and wasting no learning time. Teachers at Wyvern St Edmund's want students to be active participants in lessons and we challenge them to excel in their learning. 

How do teachers encourage students to think hard and participate actively in lessons? 

• Cold Calling:

This is calling on a student without asking for hands up. Through cold calling, teachers at Wyvern St Edmund's are inviting everyone into the class discussion and ensuring that everybody is thinking hard. If you know that you're never going to answer a question in lessons, you're less likely to think and we want all students to think hard about the content of the lesson so that they can learn effectively. Cold calling is also a way in which we can show all students that their voice matters, that their opinion matters and that they are accountable for thinking hard in lessons. 

• Wait Time:

Teachers will pose a question and give students thinking time before calling upon them - this means that more students are ready to give an answer when called upon. 

• Turn and Talk:

Students will be given regular opportunities for quick, structured discussions with a peer in lessons. This ensures that all students are able to think through their ideas actively whilst engaging in conversation with a classmate. It's great as an opportunity to rehearse ideas and building confidence before cold-calling. 

• Stop and Jot:

This is where students are asked to quickly write down their thoughts e.g. on a mini whiteboard or in their books. This activity gives students the opportunity to respond to questions or express creative insights before sharing their ideas with the class. 

Teaching and Learning Lesson Routines: The WSE WayApsiration Fundamentals