Subject Teaching in Primary Education
- Patrick Smith - University of Wolverhampton, UK
- Lyn Dawes - University of Northampton, UK
To be a successful teacher in primary schools you need to have an informed understanding of a wide range of subjects. This book provides clear guidance of good practice teaching different subjects in primary education, informed by current curriculum directions, and full of practical advice for the classroom.
Key features:
- Clear links to the 2014 National Curriculum in England
- 'In the classroom' examples from schools demonstrate intelligent and engaging ways to teach different subjects
- Reflective questions challenge you to critically engage with what you have read and apply it to your own teaching
'An essential read for trainee and newly qualified teachers covering all key areas of the primary curriculum. Experienced teachers will also find this useful as a refresher, as well as those leading a new area of the curriculum. Current pedagogy and systems are referred to throughout in a very accessible way. There is a real sense of experienced and enthusiastic practitioners writing about ‘what makes good’ and why, with lots of clear practical examples of how to put ideas into practice.'
'The general message of the book appears to not only prepare teachers to think about each subject area but to recognise, as Eisner (2002: 58) would suggest, that the teacher ‘teaches herself as well as the subject’. As a result paying each subject due attention and recognising their strengths and learning opportunities becomes important; enabling the subjects to be represented more evenly to children.
Useful connections to recent policy and relevant research literature which provides an up to date feel. In addition classroom practice is represented through the practice based examples.
A creative approach to art and design is encouraged in the dedicated chapter on this important area of the curriculum. This approach encourages children to be playful with materials and ideas, but to also become knowledgeable in traditional and contemporary art practices: drawing painting photography and through the use of sketchbooks. Material is included which supports the management of the learning environment and positive approaches to engaging with a broad selection of artistic practices. References to recent policy and research material helps contextualise the ideas in a broader setting.'
This is well written and very clear in outlining the complex role of a class teacher.
Useful text. Recommended text for Whole Curriculum Studies.
Subject Teaching in Primary Schools' is a very accessible read, and would be ideal reading for students new to teaching, and as a quick reference for teachers on subjects with which they need to become more familiar. The short chapters are pithy, and inevitably don't cover all aspects - but this is addressed by pointing to further reading by respected authors. The introduction should be read by all student teachers.
This text will be used in conjunction with others, so give students a broader perspective about curriculum design and delivery.
A good text for any student studying primary education. Very assessable with each chapter providing a good overview of key issues.
A useful text covering the range of primary subjects enabling the student to see an overview of subject knowledge and understanding in all subjects. The PE chapter highlights key principles for teaching and learning which will supplement their understanding.
Helpful addition to the reading for the module
A necessary resource to reflect the new National Curriculum. The chapters are carefully presented and for students on the BEd Early Years Teaching route ( 3 - 7), the first chapter acts as a transition process from the Early Years Foundation Stage to Keystage 1 and beyond.
