Talk, Thinking and Philosophy in the Primary Classroom

"Anybody interested in child development will find this book both informative and interesting. It contains a good range of theory and research (historic and modern) and is also 'grounded' in practice. A very useful addition to Initial Teacher Training reading lists." Lecturer, University of Cumbria

As a renewed emphasis on talk for learning is anticipated in forthcoming National Curriculum, this book provides a good theoretical grounding, as well as practical strategies, for developing meaningful talk in the classroom.

This is an area which is just being promoted in the primary school in Scotland. Some council areas use it more than others at the moment but it is definitely something worth engaging the children in to think deeper. THe book is well written and accessible to all.

Strengths: Broad range of areas addressed; relevant to theories of learning; links to neuroscience; de Bono – all useful aspects to consider in this area; good sub-headings – accessible writing.\
Weaknesses: Worth mentioning Summerhill – successes and failures; downsides of Smith’s approach -arguments raised against it?

I will be using this book with the Foundation degree Teaching Assistance students. This book is well structured, considering important issues within the primary school. Will be useful. Thank you

This is a good basic introduction to using talk and philosophy in the classroom. It covers a range of theories and using practical examples to demonstrate the effectiveness of dialogic teaching

This book is packed with useful and important ideas and information, presented in an accessible way. It deals with aspects of primary practice which are increasingly seen as central to children's learning.

An excellent book for practitioners to investigate the benifits of thinking skills and philosophy in the curriculum and make positive links to practice.