Making Language and Learning Work

"Diversity is not about how we differ. diversity is about embracing one
anothers uniqueness"
Ola Joseph

Today we started our class with 'Diversity Bingo' a good way to start the class, and also a good way to change a very simple game that got us reflecting on what we learnt last week. this was also appealing to boys as it involved competition, i was close to winning but alas i got beaten on this occasion, its good to learn to lose gracefully on occasion.

We then moved onto today's discussion which revolved around 'Making Language and Learning Work', this was particularly interesting to me as i spent time on practicum dealing with literacy issues and having strategies to help students better understand economic concepts and literature is key. I was particularly interested in the three level structure as this was something I would have like to have used on practicum but after giving out a couple of economic articles and finding that students couldn't really comprehend them and got scared of big words, I lost my nerve and didn't use articles again which was a shame, however using some of the techniques i saw in class today i am sure i can tailor my classes and lessons to suit all language needs. The video was very good and showed even at the higher levels of Economics you can incorporate co-constructive behaviour, and keep your students engaged and interested in the topic.

As a teacher i am going to ensure that i take time to assess the needs of my class and, emphasising how to answer the questions and what information the examiners are looking for, this was evident in Mr Snowdens use of the 'SEXY Statement' and also providing students with options for answering questions.

Oh and don't forget "Know your Learner" don't assume anything, you can get students to write stories about there backgrounds so you can get a greater understanding of how to teach them. Continue to work on your pedagogy, never rest on your laurels because as they say in sport "your only as good as your last performance" so in teaching "your only as good as your last lesson" allow yourselves to make mistakes reflect and learn, this will only enhance your practice.

Today's lesson was good and gave me further hope that i can work on literacy strategies that will make all students succeed in economics.