Need inspiration for pupil led learning

[EdwiniasRevenge]

I'm an NQT so still learning and chances are any idea will be a new idea to me.

I spend too much time at the front telling the kids what I want them to know rather than letting them discover it for themselves. ..so I'm looking for inspiration on pupil centred learning.

I teach science - but mainly because my classroom management needs improvement we don't do many practicals although that does vary by class.

So hit me with your best ideas for learning strategies where the kids learn more and I teach less.

[kesstrel]

I'm afraid I don't have any tips for you, but you might be interested in this article, and the comments that follow:

theconversation.com/ignore-the-fads-teachers-should-teach-and-students-should-listen-39634

[Salmotrutta]

Have you done any group tasks Edwinia?

For example:-
Split class into groups of three or four, give each group a different topic to research, (give them a set of learning outcomes as a guide), point them in the direction of textbooks, websites etc. then give them a strict time limit to produce a pamphlet, poster, presentation of their topic to teach the other groups from.
Make sure everyone in the class takes notes/fills in a table/answers a set of questions (whatever best lends itself) based on each group's topic.

If each group member has a specific task like taking notes, sourcing facts etc. and the imposed time limit is tight (not too tight) then they need to work steadily.

If they know they have to present it to the rest of the class in one form or another that focuses the mind very well!

[EdwiniasRevenge]

Thankyou both.

I found that article very interesting - but I still need more pupil centred task ideas to mix it up a bit.

one of the problems I have at the minute is that I am in a school which has challenging behaviour and I only started at Feb half term after the kids had a long run of supply and I'm struggling a bit with the classroom management. This means I've been a bit limited in what I can do as I have been trying to keep them in their seats as much as possible.

I did try a jigsaw type activity similar to what you describe with one of my smaller groups and it was ok. I may be brave enough to try it with another group after easter...

I also tried a quick on the draw type activity and it was a disaster.

One of the things that has inhibited "research and present to the group" type activities at this school is that the kids have very poor research skills (top sets aside - I need to tell them which paragraph on which page to find answers...)...so I need to work on their research skills a bit before this type of task csn be open ended. ..

at the moment I'm using lots of worksheets an textbook questions but want to spice it up abit without taking too much of a risk with behaviour....

[AlternativeTentacles]

Try looking at Inquiry Based Science - IBSE

www.pathwayuk.org.uk/what-is-ibse.html

[Murdermysteryreader]

Collaberative Learning Pocketbook by Gael someone has some good ideas.