First Published in 1999. Based on the author's experience of teaching poetry to children for more thirty years, this book offers guidance on engaging young children minds in poetry in line with the Literacy Hour.

When asked by the school inspector what he thought of poetry, an eleven year old replied that "it's all la-dida and daffodils, isn't it?" In his primary school the boy had come across very little poetry apart from nursery rhymes, snatches of rhyming verse and a few comic pieces and nonsense poems. Poetry to him was something arcane, not really related to his own life. He had studied no powerful, challenging, contemplative, arresting, quirky poems and had written very few poems himself. His teacher admitted that he was no English specialist, had received few ideas at college on the teaching of poetry and didn't really know where to start. As children progress through the primary school they need to be exposed to a rich diet of poetry and encouraged to read, perform and write it themselves. Providing a varied and stimulating environment is essential if is to flourish. In addition, children need specifi c guidance and ideas to start them off writing their own poems. This book, written by a former teacher and school inspector, and popular and widely published children's poet, offers an accessible, practical and structured programme for the teaching of this sometimes neglected aspect of the English curriculum.

Unique in its field, the Encyclopedia of Primary Education brings together a wide-ranging body of information relating to current educational practice in a single indispensable volume. This book provides a series of descriptions, definitions and explanations that engage with important practical and conceptual ideas in primary education and contains over 500 entries incorporating: Curriculum subjects, themes and topics Theories, policies and educational controversies Pedagogical terms relating to teaching and learning Commentaries on current issues in primary education Influential figures in education, both past and present The impact of educational research on policy and practice Based on the author’s extensive experience in primary education, entries combine an interrogation of educational concepts with the pedagogical and practical implications for classroom practice, children’s learning and school management. This handy reference work will be invaluable to anyone currently teaching or training to teach at primary level, teaching assistants, school governors and parents. In fact it is essential reading for anyone with an interest and passion for primary education.

Teaching Poetry is a guide to effective pedagogy for getting students interested and involved in talking and learning about poetry.

How can you help children to develop a love of reading and books? Which books are the best ones to use in primary teaching? How do you make the most of children′s literature in teaching across the curriculum? Trainee and experienced primary school teachers need an advanced knowledge of children′s literature. This is your guide to the range of and scope of children′s literature for the primary classroom. Through the exploration of different genres it covers a wide range of literature and helps you to consider what we mean by literature. Case studies that model good practice are included with suggestions for practical activities using literature to enhance teaching across the curriculum. Throughout, book recommendations show how specific texts can be used for teaching in exciting and innovative ways. What′s new to this edition? - updated in line with the new Primary National Curriculum - includes new content on supporting children for whom English is an Additional Language - an extensive list of book recommendations for primary teaching - how to get more out of classic texts - introduces new texts and new children′s authors

This new title applies inspiring ideas and teaching approaches to the different subject areas taught in primary schools. Using a practical, subject-based approach, it promotes creativity, innovativeness and enthusiasm as integral to effective teaching and enhanced standards. Each chapter introduces a subject, its key issues, vital knowledge and pedagogical implications. In addition, case studies, action points, key quotes and thought-provoking suggestions for practice encourage readers to engage with the text. Offering refreshing, innovative perspectives in an accessible format, this book will help trainees and teachers to develop skills, boost their confidence and, crucially, increase their own and their pupils′ enjoyment.

This powerful text encourages both pre-service and established teachers, as well as teacher educators, to engage with contemporary debates in primary education. Promoting a critical approach, the chapters explore a wide range of key themes including the importance of values in primary education and the imperative for a curriculum which embraces the whole range of available subjects. At the same time, the chapters are underpinned by a belief that children should be at the heart of all the decisions we make and that primary education should inspire a love of learning, for life. The book aims to support practitioners to make informed judgements and feel confident to argue their point of view with deeper theoretical knowledge and understanding, thus increasing teacher agency and confidence in responding to complex educational and social dilemmas such as literacy levels and rising mental health concerns. Chapters encompass both the macro aspects of primary education and more specialised debates on key topics such as reading, mathematics, languages, early years education and the use of technology. With annotated further reading and reflective questions, this key text is essential reading for all those wanting to develop a better understanding of the issues that shape their practice including student teachers at both undergraduate and postgraduate level, practising teachers engaged in continuing professional development and teacher educators.

Writing development is currently the focus of substantial international debate because it is the aspect of literacy education that has been least responsive to central government and state reforms. Teaching approaches in writing have been slower to change than those in teaching reading and pupil attainment in writing has increased at a much more modest rate than pupil attainment in reading. This handbook critically examines research and theoretical issues that impact on writing development from the early years through to adulthood. It provides those researching or teaching literacy with one of the most academically authoritative and comprehensive works in the field. With expert contributors from across the world, the book represents a detailed and valuable overview of a complex area of study.

Offering a wealth of ideas and support for ways to really bring poetry alive, this book draws on what is known to work, and explores fresh thinking. It will help both new and experienced teachers approach poetry with imagination and confidence. Written by people who have taught poetry in different settings for many years, and with contributions from poets Michael Rosen and James Carter, this book offers ideas on: - using drama - cross-curricular working - what to do with younger learners - inspiring children to write their own poems - and much more ... An enjoyable and uplifting book, it is a must for anyone working with children aged 5 to 14 who is looking for inspiration for their poetry teaching. Michael Lockwood is Senior Lecturer in English and Education, University of Reading.

The authors of this book offer practical help to teachers in making day-to-day provision for the gifted and talented pupils in their classroom. Designed mainly for primary teacher, intending teachers and teacher trainers, the book draws together current findings in curriculum provision in the core subjects, links theory and practice in such a way that the readers can benefit from exemplar material, and allows them to adapt their own teaching to provide an inclusive curriculum for the gifted and talented children they teach.