In the United Kingdom, there is a national system in place that examines how well a school is managed, and what processes are in place to ensure that standards of teaching and learning improve. This inspection process is crucial in evaluating the quality of leadership and management and the school's capacity to improve. This book presents ways in which a teacher can make sure in the brief time that an inspector (or other assessor) spends in their classroom, that the lesson ticks enough boxes to impress AND gain that outstanding grade. Jackie Beere leads the teacher through the criteria to search for the 'x-factor' - the magic ingredients that will elevate lessons to outstanding. This means demonstrating exceptional progress in learning and that the quality of learning is exceptional. Some other vital ingredients that will elevate lessons to outstanding --Differentiating for various groups of learners --Developing independent and resilient learners --Challenging the most able learners --Sharing the criteria for success To ensure these are demonstrated when being observed Jackie provides teachers six steps to 1. Be in control, right from the start and set up the learning environment 2. Stimulate curiosity and open mindedness and prepare the brain for learning 3. Set objectives of learning outcomes and engage students in the learning 4. Main lesson activities 5. Dish up the DIRT... often! (Dedicated Improvement and Reflection Time) 6. Provide the perfect plenary or review
This book is a must read. I first read about it in a TES review earlier this year and immediately bought two copies for my sister and myself. Straight after I had dipped into it I brought it to the attention of my Head Teacher who in turn asked me to order 20 copies for the whole teaching staff. This is how good the book is.
Jackie Beere encouraged me to become a teacher. It is brimming with ideas to help you help the children. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.