A Masterclass in Teaching, 08 Sep 2008
I was fortunate enough to be taught by Geoff Petty when I was taking my Cert. Ed. It spoke volumes that, while other lecturers' classes were sporadically attended, it was difficult to get a seat in Geoff's classes!

This man is an inspirational teacher and it comes across in his writing, which is full of easy-to-follow concepts and examples. If you aspire to be an inspirational teacher too, or if you're just trying to find ways in which to get through the day a bit more easily, then you need this book on your shelves.

The Bible for Student Teachers , 10 Apr 2008
I started off by using a library book but soon resorted to buying my personal copy. This book has lived on my bedside table for nearly three years, has been mentioned in nearly all of my esssays and gives me guidance and advice on my teaching.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Straight-talking, sense-making; its like the voice of reason on paper. Love it!

Good reference book for PGCE, 01 Feb 2008
I am doing my PGCE compulsory course which I find very frustrating, the workshops are full of terms and jargons with no links between the different subjects. This book can be considered as a well organized book written in a clear language giving good background with good links between the different topics. It is a book which can be used as a helpful reference text book you can refer to as you are doing your PGCE.

Teaching me to teach my students, 06 Oct 2007
This book features heavily in my ITT course at university and for good reason, it is packed with well written and helpful information for any teacher (not just trainees).

The book covers such topics as how we learn, questioning techniques, behavioural advice and assessment.

This is by far the best book I have read on pedagogy.


Really Good, 30 Jun 2007
I am studying for my Cert Ed. This book was recommended by my tutor. It is really good. It is easy to read & puts the point across simply & clearly.

A Masterclass in Teaching, 08 Sep 2008
I was fortunate enough to be taught by Geoff Petty when I was taking my Cert. Ed. It spoke volumes that, while other lecturers' classes were sporadically attended, it was difficult to get a seat in Geoff's classes!

This man is an inspirational teacher and it comes across in his writing, which is full of easy-to-follow concepts and examples. If you aspire to be an inspirational teacher too, or if you're just trying to find ways in which to get through the day a bit more easily, then you need this book on your shelves.

The Bible for Student Teachers , 10 Apr 2008
I started off by using a library book but soon resorted to buying my personal copy. This book has lived on my bedside table for nearly three years, has been mentioned in nearly all of my esssays and gives me guidance and advice on my teaching.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Straight-talking, sense-making; its like the voice of reason on paper. Love it!

Good reference book for PGCE, 01 Feb 2008
I am doing my PGCE compulsory course which I find very frustrating, the workshops are full of terms and jargons with no links between the different subjects. This book can be considered as a well organized book written in a clear language giving good background with good links between the different topics. It is a book which can be used as a helpful reference text book you can refer to as you are doing your PGCE.

Teaching me to teach my students, 06 Oct 2007
This book features heavily in my ITT course at university and for good reason, it is packed with well written and helpful information for any teacher (not just trainees).

The book covers such topics as how we learn, questioning techniques, behavioural advice and assessment.

This is by far the best book I have read on pedagogy.


Really Good, 30 Jun 2007
I am studying for my Cert Ed. This book was recommended by my tutor. It is really good. It is easy to read & puts the point across simply & clearly.

A good one for english teachers, 30 Jun 2008
The title of this book may lead you to believe the author to be of a strict and dominating character in the class room. This perception is wrong. Instead you can find a calm 'firm but fun' attitude to behavoirable management and teaching in general. I would definately guess Ms Cowley to be an english teacher and describes lesson plans for conceptual subjects; the arts.

The book explains throughly ideas and tips for getting a student's attention and respect though uses a possibly naieve view of the average student. As a young teacher I remember being a student myself recently and I think that some of these methods wouldn't work on badly behaved students because they rely too much on the analysis of self the author explains will calm them down and the idea that explaination of the rules will calm a hot headed student.

I prefer to be a bit more strict than Ms Cowley when I'm teaching and would not reason with a misbehaving student as much as she does, but I certainly share her philiosophy of a fun teacher being a better teacher. I found very few tips useful for science lessons in this book, but theres a science teaching book available by the author should you enjoy the style of this book.

This said, I certainly believe that these tips will be very useful in my future carreer for dealing with the average student, rather than the badly behaved. This book was excellent fun to read; I got through it in one night! Well worth the price.

Oozing with good advice, 05 May 2007
OK, so I admit I started reading this with a giant pinch of salt at the ready. It was unnecessary. I've been teaching for almost thirty years now, I've seen many ( too many ) changes in that time and if I had to give a book to a trainee teacher then this would be the one.

Children are not the enemy - they are children - even the 18 year olds - and this book offers much sound advice to keep you sane and happy through your teaching career.

This is an excellent guide to one of the best professions in the world.

A little thin on the ground, 04 Jan 2007
I found this a little simplisitic and thin on the ground. Having been lucky enough to be lectured by her on behaviour in person on my PGCE I know she really does know what she's talking about and can communicate with great clarity and humour. I prefer Bill Roger' "You know the fair rule" as a far more comprehensive guide to behaviour management.


A brilliant start or intervention to classroom management., 27 Aug 2006
We've all heard it before. If kids missbehave in your lesson you must "Inspire" them, or plan the lesson better, or be more "enthaustic" or blah, blah, blah. I generally cut out at this point because, like most teachers, I'm doing all of the above and I know even the best planned and most exciting lesson can go wrong.

I picked up this book half way through my PGCE and all the advice it gave clicked into place and rapidly improved my classroom management and immediently helped my teaching.

What makes it so effective is that Sue is mearly human herself, who has learnt how to be a good teacher over the years. The book shows a great understanding of what it's like to be a teacher and how difficult it can be managing certain classes or just making a good lesson go even better.

This book it demonstrates how to get pupils to do as you say, how to get them to want to behave and how to manage it all when things do go wrong without stressing yourself out to much. All the factors that make slesson more positive.
Cowley manages to to do all this in a practical fashion with numerous examples of different real life situations.

It's written in such a easy to follow fashion that it ends up being more helpful than anyother educational book (excluding Bill Rogers) or LEA confrence you'll ever read or attend.

You may not want to do things 100% as Sue Cowley susgests, but there is ample material with lots of different ideas that do work so you can remix them into your own personnal style.

An excellent tool for any teacher who wants sensible advice on improving their classroom management. Advice that actually helps.

I should add that the only negative review on this book is by somebody who hasn't actually tried out the techniques given out. They just complain about it repeating itself in different ways. They have unfortuantly missed the point that being able to repeat things in different ways or use different techniques of saying the same thing in different situations is one of the most important skills a good teacher requires.

a teachers must have, 08 Jul 2006
this is a must have for all who teach or want to teach.

its the teachers bible, one of Sue Cowleys many fantastic books with great helpful hints.

Gives us the insight we all need to help with the daily routine of school life.

I LIVE BY THIS BOOK.

A Masterclass in Teaching, 08 Sep 2008
I was fortunate enough to be taught by Geoff Petty when I was taking my Cert. Ed. It spoke volumes that, while other lecturers' classes were sporadically attended, it was difficult to get a seat in Geoff's classes!

This man is an inspirational teacher and it comes across in his writing, which is full of easy-to-follow concepts and examples. If you aspire to be an inspirational teacher too, or if you're just trying to find ways in which to get through the day a bit more easily, then you need this book on your shelves.

The Bible for Student Teachers , 10 Apr 2008
I started off by using a library book but soon resorted to buying my personal copy. This book has lived on my bedside table for nearly three years, has been mentioned in nearly all of my esssays and gives me guidance and advice on my teaching.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Straight-talking, sense-making; its like the voice of reason on paper. Love it!

Good reference book for PGCE, 01 Feb 2008
I am doing my PGCE compulsory course which I find very frustrating, the workshops are full of terms and jargons with no links between the different subjects. This book can be considered as a well organized book written in a clear language giving good background with good links between the different topics. It is a book which can be used as a helpful reference text book you can refer to as you are doing your PGCE.

Teaching me to teach my students, 06 Oct 2007
This book features heavily in my ITT course at university and for good reason, it is packed with well written and helpful information for any teacher (not just trainees).

The book covers such topics as how we learn, questioning techniques, behavioural advice and assessment.

This is by far the best book I have read on pedagogy.


Really Good, 30 Jun 2007
I am studying for my Cert Ed. This book was recommended by my tutor. It is really good. It is easy to read & puts the point across simply & clearly.

A good one for english teachers, 30 Jun 2008
The title of this book may lead you to believe the author to be of a strict and dominating character in the class room. This perception is wrong. Instead you can find a calm 'firm but fun' attitude to behavoirable management and teaching in general. I would definately guess Ms Cowley to be an english teacher and describes lesson plans for conceptual subjects; the arts.

The book explains throughly ideas and tips for getting a student's attention and respect though uses a possibly naieve view of the average student. As a young teacher I remember being a student myself recently and I think that some of these methods wouldn't work on badly behaved students because they rely too much on the analysis of self the author explains will calm them down and the idea that explaination of the rules will calm a hot headed student.

I prefer to be a bit more strict than Ms Cowley when I'm teaching and would not reason with a misbehaving student as much as she does, but I certainly share her philiosophy of a fun teacher being a better teacher. I found very few tips useful for science lessons in this book, but theres a science teaching book available by the author should you enjoy the style of this book.

This said, I certainly believe that these tips will be very useful in my future carreer for dealing with the average student, rather than the badly behaved. This book was excellent fun to read; I got through it in one night! Well worth the price.

Oozing with good advice, 05 May 2007
OK, so I admit I started reading this with a giant pinch of salt at the ready. It was unnecessary. I've been teaching for almost thirty years now, I've seen many ( too many ) changes in that time and if I had to give a book to a trainee teacher then this would be the one.

Children are not the enemy - they are children - even the 18 year olds - and this book offers much sound advice to keep you sane and happy through your teaching career.

This is an excellent guide to one of the best professions in the world.

A little thin on the ground, 04 Jan 2007
I found this a little simplisitic and thin on the ground. Having been lucky enough to be lectured by her on behaviour in person on my PGCE I know she really does know what she's talking about and can communicate with great clarity and humour. I prefer Bill Roger' "You know the fair rule" as a far more comprehensive guide to behaviour management.


A brilliant start or intervention to classroom management., 27 Aug 2006
We've all heard it before. If kids missbehave in your lesson you must "Inspire" them, or plan the lesson better, or be more "enthaustic" or blah, blah, blah. I generally cut out at this point because, like most teachers, I'm doing all of the above and I know even the best planned and most exciting lesson can go wrong.

I picked up this book half way through my PGCE and all the advice it gave clicked into place and rapidly improved my classroom management and immediently helped my teaching.

What makes it so effective is that Sue is mearly human herself, who has learnt how to be a good teacher over the years. The book shows a great understanding of what it's like to be a teacher and how difficult it can be managing certain classes or just making a good lesson go even better.

This book it demonstrates how to get pupils to do as you say, how to get them to want to behave and how to manage it all when things do go wrong without stressing yourself out to much. All the factors that make slesson more positive.
Cowley manages to to do all this in a practical fashion with numerous examples of different real life situations.

It's written in such a easy to follow fashion that it ends up being more helpful than anyother educational book (excluding Bill Rogers) or LEA confrence you'll ever read or attend.

You may not want to do things 100% as Sue Cowley susgests, but there is ample material with lots of different ideas that do work so you can remix them into your own personnal style.

An excellent tool for any teacher who wants sensible advice on improving their classroom management. Advice that actually helps.

I should add that the only negative review on this book is by somebody who hasn't actually tried out the techniques given out. They just complain about it repeating itself in different ways. They have unfortuantly missed the point that being able to repeat things in different ways or use different techniques of saying the same thing in different situations is one of the most important skills a good teacher requires.

a teachers must have, 08 Jul 2006
this is a must have for all who teach or want to teach.

its the teachers bible, one of Sue Cowleys many fantastic books with great helpful hints.

Gives us the insight we all need to help with the daily routine of school life.

I LIVE BY THIS BOOK.

The "nuts and bolts" of behaviour control., 13 Jul 2008
I moved over, asked him how his work was going, and, before parting, quietly said: "The bin's over there" (gesturing with my eyes to the bin). He smiled, walked over to the bin, and spat out his chewing gum.

That's what happened when I put Bill Rodger's specific guidance to common classroom problems into practice: it worked! In the past I used to take a more aggressive manner, sticking a foul-smelling bin under the nose of any child which chew in my class--this inevitably disrupted the flow of the lesson for the whole class as they protested at the unfairness.

This book is explicit in describing what to communicate (verbally and through body language) in managing a class, and breaks down the "firm but fair" approach into its core-components. It's easy to read, and the messages black-and-white. He adds real-life teaching stories which not only put his guidance into a classroom perspective, but make for amusing reading!

I wish I had read this book before my PGCE, rather than at the end.

Excellent book, 15 May 2008
I'm starting teaching soon, and the stuff I've learnt from this book has given what I think will be a great foundation. He backs up a lot of his points with real-life examples so you can immediately see what he's getting at. I would definately recommend this book.

solid, helpful advice, 22 Apr 2007
Very practical advice that makes you think 'that happened to me' and gives you alternatives ways of looking at and dealing with those incredibly frustrating and, sometimes, upsetting moments in a classroom when behaviour is not what you would consider 'the norm' (or so we hope).

The best book any teacher could buy, 08 Jan 2007
I work in quite a challenging school. During my first 2 years of training I really did question whether teaching was for me. I had bought similar books (getting buggers to behave, etc) but was not overly inspired. However, a friend had mentioned the author and claimed he was fantastic. I bought the book not really expecting much. However, each of his suggestions and explanations were so brilliant and easy that I couldn't wait to try them out. I'm in my 5th year of teaching and I still refer to the book. I have passed the book around my department and we all use the basic strategies. If you buy one book on teaching, get this one.

Amazing practical behaviour handbook for teachers, 30 Aug 2001
The book opens with a description of how the author failed at school and left after posting caricatures of the teachers on the school walls - as reported in the Daily Express. As a new teacher, having previously worked in supply, I wondered how I would possibly cope. This book was recommended by my headteacher and gives practical methods for handling classes, setting rules, discipling and more. The book details how to set class rules with a classroom meeting (or in circle time in Primary) and refers discipline problems back to these jointly developed rules. However this book really is a practical guide and is full of real examples of both bad and good teaching practice taken from both the author's own teaching experience and from working as a consultant. It realy is frightening to see what you have done wrong and what you should have done instead! If the contents of this book were taught in PGCE courses we wouldn't have anywhere near the bahavioural problems we see in schools today. If you a teacher - buy this book - especially if you are a NQT

A Masterclass in Teaching, 08 Sep 2008
I was fortunate enough to be taught by Geoff Petty when I was taking my Cert. Ed. It spoke volumes that, while other lecturers' classes were sporadically attended, it was difficult to get a seat in Geoff's classes!

This man is an inspirational teacher and it comes across in his writing, which is full of easy-to-follow concepts and examples. If you aspire to be an inspirational teacher too, or if you're just trying to find ways in which to get through the day a bit more easily, then you need this book on your shelves.

The Bible for Student Teachers , 10 Apr 2008
I started off by using a library book but soon resorted to buying my personal copy. This book has lived on my bedside table for nearly three years, has been mentioned in nearly all of my esssays and gives me guidance and advice on my teaching.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Straight-talking, sense-making; its like the voice of reason on paper. Love it!

Good reference book for PGCE, 01 Feb 2008
I am doing my PGCE compulsory course which I find very frustrating, the workshops are full of terms and jargons with no links between the different subjects. This book can be considered as a well organized book written in a clear language giving good background with good links between the different topics. It is a book which can be used as a helpful reference text book you can refer to as you are doing your PGCE.

Teaching me to teach my students, 06 Oct 2007
This book features heavily in my ITT course at university and for good reason, it is packed with well written and helpful information for any teacher (not just trainees).

The book covers such topics as how we learn, questioning techniques, behavioural advice and assessment.

This is by far the best book I have read on pedagogy.


Really Good, 30 Jun 2007
I am studying for my Cert Ed. This book was recommended by my tutor. It is really good. It is easy to read & puts the point across simply & clearly.

A good one for english teachers, 30 Jun 2008
The title of this book may lead you to believe the author to be of a strict and dominating character in the class room. This perception is wrong. Instead you can find a calm 'firm but fun' attitude to behavoirable management and teaching in general. I would definately guess Ms Cowley to be an english teacher and describes lesson plans for conceptual subjects; the arts.

The book explains throughly ideas and tips for getting a student's attention and respect though uses a possibly naieve view of the average student. As a young teacher I remember being a student myself recently and I think that some of these methods wouldn't work on badly behaved students because they rely too much on the analysis of self the author explains will calm them down and the idea that explaination of the rules will calm a hot headed student.

I prefer to be a bit more strict than Ms Cowley when I'm teaching and would not reason with a misbehaving student as much as she does, but I certainly share her philiosophy of a fun teacher being a better teacher. I found very few tips useful for science lessons in this book, but theres a science teaching book available by the author should you enjoy the style of this book.

This said, I certainly believe that these tips will be very useful in my future carreer for dealing with the average student, rather than the badly behaved. This book was excellent fun to read; I got through it in one night! Well worth the price.

Oozing with good advice, 05 May 2007
OK, so I admit I started reading this with a giant pinch of salt at the ready. It was unnecessary. I've been teaching for almost thirty years now, I've seen many ( too many ) changes in that time and if I had to give a book to a trainee teacher then this would be the one.

Children are not the enemy - they are children - even the 18 year olds - and this book offers much sound advice to keep you sane and happy through your teaching career.

This is an excellent guide to one of the best professions in the world.

A little thin on the ground, 04 Jan 2007
I found this a little simplisitic and thin on the ground. Having been lucky enough to be lectured by her on behaviour in person on my PGCE I know she really does know what she's talking about and can communicate with great clarity and humour. I prefer Bill Roger' "You know the fair rule" as a far more comprehensive guide to behaviour management.


A brilliant start or intervention to classroom management., 27 Aug 2006
We've all heard it before. If kids missbehave in your lesson you must "Inspire" them, or plan the lesson better, or be more "enthaustic" or blah, blah, blah. I generally cut out at this point because, like most teachers, I'm doing all of the above and I know even the best planned and most exciting lesson can go wrong.

I picked up this book half way through my PGCE and all the advice it gave clicked into place and rapidly improved my classroom management and immediently helped my teaching.

What makes it so effective is that Sue is mearly human herself, who has learnt how to be a good teacher over the years. The book shows a great understanding of what it's like to be a teacher and how difficult it can be managing certain classes or just making a good lesson go even better.

This book it demonstrates how to get pupils to do as you say, how to get them to want to behave and how to manage it all when things do go wrong without stressing yourself out to much. All the factors that make slesson more positive.
Cowley manages to to do all this in a practical fashion with numerous examples of different real life situations.

It's written in such a easy to follow fashion that it ends up being more helpful than anyother educational book (excluding Bill Rogers) or LEA confrence you'll ever read or attend.

You may not want to do things 100% as Sue Cowley susgests, but there is ample material with lots of different ideas that do work so you can remix them into your own personnal style.

An excellent tool for any teacher who wants sensible advice on improving their classroom management. Advice that actually helps.

I should add that the only negative review on this book is by somebody who hasn't actually tried out the techniques given out. They just complain about it repeating itself in different ways. They have unfortuantly missed the point that being able to repeat things in different ways or use different techniques of saying the same thing in different situations is one of the most important skills a good teacher requires.

a teachers must have, 08 Jul 2006
this is a must have for all who teach or want to teach.

its the teachers bible, one of Sue Cowleys many fantastic books with great helpful hints.

Gives us the insight we all need to help with the daily routine of school life.

I LIVE BY THIS BOOK.

The "nuts and bolts" of behaviour control., 13 Jul 2008
I moved over, asked him how his work was going, and, before parting, quietly said: "The bin's over there" (gesturing with my eyes to the bin). He smiled, walked over to the bin, and spat out his chewing gum.

That's what happened when I put Bill Rodger's specific guidance to common classroom problems into practice: it worked! In the past I used to take a more aggressive manner, sticking a foul-smelling bin under the nose of any child which chew in my class--this inevitably disrupted the flow of the lesson for the whole class as they protested at the unfairness.

This book is explicit in describing what to communicate (verbally and through body language) in managing a class, and breaks down the "firm but fair" approach into its core-components. It's easy to read, and the messages black-and-white. He adds real-life teaching stories which not only put his guidance into a classroom perspective, but make for amusing reading!

I wish I had read this book before my PGCE, rather than at the end.

Excellent book, 15 May 2008
I'm starting teaching soon, and the stuff I've learnt from this book has given what I think will be a great foundation. He backs up a lot of his points with real-life examples so you can immediately see what he's getting at. I would definately recommend this book.

solid, helpful advice, 22 Apr 2007
Very practical advice that makes you think 'that happened to me' and gives you alternatives ways of looking at and dealing with those incredibly frustrating and, sometimes, upsetting moments in a classroom when behaviour is not what you would consider 'the norm' (or so we hope).

The best book any teacher could buy, 08 Jan 2007
I work in quite a challenging school. During my first 2 years of training I really did question whether teaching was for me. I had bought similar books (getting buggers to behave, etc) but was not overly inspired. However, a friend had mentioned the author and claimed he was fantastic. I bought the book not really expecting much. However, each of his suggestions and explanations were so brilliant and easy that I couldn't wait to try them out. I'm in my 5th year of teaching and I still refer to the book. I have passed the book around my department and we all use the basic strategies. If you buy one book on teaching, get this one.

Amazing practical behaviour handbook for teachers, 30 Aug 2001
The book opens with a description of how the author failed at school and left after posting caricatures of the teachers on the school walls - as reported in the Daily Express. As a new teacher, having previously worked in supply, I wondered how I would possibly cope. This book was recommended by my headteacher and gives practical methods for handling classes, setting rules, discipling and more. The book details how to set class rules with a classroom meeting (or in circle time in Primary) and refers discipline problems back to these jointly developed rules. However this book really is a practical guide and is full of real examples of both bad and good teaching practice taken from both the author's own teaching experience and from working as a consultant. It realy is frightening to see what you have done wrong and what you should have done instead! If the contents of this book were taught in PGCE courses we wouldn't have anywhere near the bahavioural problems we see in schools today. If you a teacher - buy this book - especially if you are a NQT

Not just for English teachers., 03 Apr 2007
This is great for any time of the year but more so when you need a quick start to a lesson or a change during a lesson. I use it sometimes as a pre-starter for the times when pupils aren't arriving all at the same time (after break or lunch). I also use it when I announce to the class "let's have a change as you are working extremely hard" little do they know I planned this and have already identified the activity!

I have taught English in a 'good' school, a school where some pupils are very weak and more recently in a special school for EBD. It gets used in all of them!

A fab resource not just for English teachers.

First wek survival, 30 Aug 2002
A super book for the first week of term! Helps you to analyse children literacy ability as well as having fun with them. Also a good source of INSET introductory games.

A very useful tool book, 30 Oct 2001
This book is a huge resource of ideas for class activities, for one student or a full class. These are all easily adaptable to suit individual requirements and level of competence. As a relatively new tutor of English to ESOL students, I am finding this a real treasure. All of the activities have examples and hints to extend the scope of the ideas. For the experienced teacher or for the newcomer, this is the sort of book one would refer to over and over again. I especially like the fact that I can adapt the ideas to suit my own style and the requirements of my widely disparate students.

this is a brilliant book, 08 Dec 2000
all kinds of activities involved in this book:pictures, games, roleplay etc....but your students need to have at least an intermediate level or certain activities will be very boring for the teacher if your pupils don't have enough vocabulary

The most useful resource book for language teachers around., 03 Apr 1999
Everybody wants to borrow this book from me and not return it! It is the most useful collection of short activities for language teachers available...you can practically open it anywhere, walk into the class and do it...and be sure of success!

A Masterclass in Teaching, 08 Sep 2008
I was fortunate enough to be taught by Geoff Petty when I was taking my Cert. Ed. It spoke volumes that, while other lecturers' classes were sporadically attended, it was difficult to get a seat in Geoff's classes!

This man is an inspirational teacher and it comes across in his writing, which is full of easy-to-follow concepts and examples. If you aspire to be an inspirational teacher too, or if you're just trying to find ways in which to get through the day a bit more easily, then you need this book on your shelves.

The Bible for Student Teachers , 10 Apr 2008
I started off by using a library book but soon resorted to buying my personal copy. This book has lived on my bedside table for nearly three years, has been mentioned in nearly all of my esssays and gives me guidance and advice on my teaching.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Straight-talking, sense-making; its like the voice of reason on paper. Love it!

Good reference book for PGCE, 01 Feb 2008
I am doing my PGCE compulsory course which I find very frustrating, the workshops are full of terms and jargons with no links between the different subjects. This book can be considered as a well organized book written in a clear language giving good background with good links between the different topics. It is a book which can be used as a helpful reference text book you can refer to as you are doing your PGCE.

Teaching me to teach my students, 06 Oct 2007
This book features heavily in my ITT course at university and for good reason, it is packed with well written and helpful information for any teacher (not just trainees).

The book covers such topics as how we learn, questioning techniques, behavioural advice and assessment.

This is by far the best book I have read on pedagogy.


Really Good, 30 Jun 2007
I am studying for my Cert Ed. This book was recommended by my tutor. It is really good. It is easy to read & puts the point across simply & clearly.

A good one for english teachers, 30 Jun 2008
The title of this book may lead you to believe the author to be of a strict and dominating character in the class room. This perception is wrong. Instead you can find a calm 'firm but fun' attitude to behavoirable management and teaching in general. I would definately guess Ms Cowley to be an english teacher and describes lesson plans for conceptual subjects; the arts.

The book explains throughly ideas and tips for getting a student's attention and respect though uses a possibly naieve view of the average student. As a young teacher I remember being a student myself recently and I think that some of these methods wouldn't work on badly behaved students because they rely too much on the analysis of self the author explains will calm them down and the idea that explaination of the rules will calm a hot headed student.

I prefer to be a bit more strict than Ms Cowley when I'm teaching and would not reason with a misbehaving student as much as she does, but I certainly share her philiosophy of a fun teacher being a better teacher. I found very few tips useful for science lessons in this book, but theres a science teaching book available by the author should you enjoy the style of this book.

This said, I certainly believe that these tips will be very useful in my future carreer for dealing with the average student, rather than the badly behaved. This book was excellent fun to read; I got through it in one night! Well worth the price.

Oozing with good advice, 05 May 2007
OK, so I admit I started reading this with a giant pinch of salt at the ready. It was unnecessary. I've been teaching for almost thirty years now, I've seen many ( too many ) changes in that time and if I had to give a book to a trainee teacher then this would be the one.

Children are not the enemy - they are children - even the 18 year olds - and this book offers much sound advice to keep you sane and happy through your teaching career.

This is an excellent guide to one of the best professions in the world.

A little thin on the ground, 04 Jan 2007
I found this a little simplisitic and thin on the ground. Having been lucky enough to be lectured by her on behaviour in person on my PGCE I know she really does know what she's talking about and can communicate with great clarity and humour. I prefer Bill Roger' "You know the fair rule" as a far more comprehensive guide to behaviour management.


A brilliant start or intervention to classroom management., 27 Aug 2006
We've all heard it before. If kids missbehave in your lesson you must "Inspire" them, or plan the lesson better, or be more "enthaustic" or blah, blah, blah. I generally cut out at this point because, like most teachers, I'm doing all of the above and I know even the best planned and most exciting lesson can go wrong.

I picked up this book half way through my PGCE and all the advice it gave clicked into place and rapidly improved my classroom management and immediently helped my teaching.

What makes it so effective is that Sue is mearly human herself, who has learnt how to be a good teacher over the years. The book shows a great understanding of what it's like to be a teacher and how difficult it can be managing certain classes or just making a good lesson go even better.

This book it demonstrates how to get pupils to do as you say, how to get them to want to behave and how to manage it all when things do go wrong without stressing yourself out to much. All the factors that make slesson more positive.
Cowley manages to to do all this in a practical fashion with numerous examples of different real life situations.

It's written in such a easy to follow fashion that it ends up being more helpful than anyother educational book (excluding Bill Rogers) or LEA confrence you'll ever read or attend.

You may not want to do things 100% as Sue Cowley susgests, but there is ample material with lots of different ideas that do work so you can remix them into your own personnal style.

An excellent tool for any teacher who wants sensible advice on improving their classroom management. Advice that actually helps.

I should add that the only negative review on this book is by somebody who hasn't actually tried out the techniques given out. They just complain about it repeating itself in different ways. They have unfortuantly missed the point that being able to repeat things in different ways or use different techniques of saying the same thing in different situations is one of the most important skills a good teacher requires.

a teachers must have, 08 Jul 2006
this is a must have for all who teach or want to teach.

its the teachers bible, one of Sue Cowleys many fantastic books with great helpful hints.

Gives us the insight we all need to help with the daily routine of school life.

I LIVE BY THIS BOOK.

The "nuts and bolts" of behaviour control., 13 Jul 2008
I moved over, asked him how his work was going, and, before parting, quietly said: "The bin's over there" (gesturing with my eyes to the bin). He smiled, walked over to the bin, and spat out his chewing gum.

That's what happened when I put Bill Rodger's specific guidance to common classroom problems into practice: it worked! In the past I used to take a more aggressive manner, sticking a foul-smelling bin under the nose of any child which chew in my class--this inevitably disrupted the flow of the lesson for the whole class as they protested at the unfairness.

This book is explicit in describing what to communicate (verbally and through body language) in managing a class, and breaks down the "firm but fair" approach into its core-components. It's easy to read, and the messages black-and-white. He adds real-life teaching stories which not only put his guidance into a classroom perspective, but make for amusing reading!

I wish I had read this book before my PGCE, rather than at the end.

Excellent book, 15 May 2008
I'm starting teaching soon, and the stuff I've learnt from this book has given what I think will be a great foundation. He backs up a lot of his points with real-life examples so you can immediately see what he's getting at. I would definately recommend this book.

solid, helpful advice, 22 Apr 2007
Very practical advice that makes you think 'that happened to me' and gives you alternatives ways of looking at and dealing with those incredibly frustrating and, sometimes, upsetting moments in a classroom when behaviour is not what you would consider 'the norm' (or so we hope).

The best book any teacher could buy, 08 Jan 2007
I work in quite a challenging school. During my first 2 years of training I really did question whether teaching was for me. I had bought similar books (getting buggers to behave, etc) but was not overly inspired. However, a friend had mentioned the author and claimed he was fantastic. I bought the book not really expecting much. However, each of his suggestions and explanations were so brilliant and easy that I couldn't wait to try them out. I'm in my 5th year of teaching and I still refer to the book. I have passed the book around my department and we all use the basic strategies. If you buy one book on teaching, get this one.

Amazing practical behaviour handbook for teachers, 30 Aug 2001
The book opens with a description of how the author failed at school and left after posting caricatures of the teachers on the school walls - as reported in the Daily Express. As a new teacher, having previously worked in supply, I wondered how I would possibly cope. This book was recommended by my headteacher and gives practical methods for handling classes, setting rules, discipling and more. The book details how to set class rules with a classroom meeting (or in circle time in Primary) and refers discipline problems back to these jointly developed rules. However this book really is a practical guide and is full of real examples of both bad and good teaching practice taken from both the author's own teaching experience and from working as a consultant. It realy is frightening to see what you have done wrong and what you should have done instead! If the contents of this book were taught in PGCE courses we wouldn't have anywhere near the bahavioural problems we see in schools today. If you a teacher - buy this book - especially if you are a NQT

Not just for English teachers., 03 Apr 2007
This is great for any time of the year but more so when you need a quick start to a lesson or a change during a lesson. I use it sometimes as a pre-starter for the times when pupils aren't arriving all at the same time (after break or lunch). I also use it when I announce to the class "let's have a change as you are working extremely hard" little do they know I planned this and have already identified the activity!

I have taught English in a 'good' school, a school where some pupils are very weak and more recently in a special school for EBD. It gets used in all of them!

A fab resource not just for English teachers.

First wek survival, 30 Aug 2002
A super book for the first week of term! Helps you to analyse children literacy ability as well as having fun with them. Also a good source of INSET introductory games.

A very useful tool book, 30 Oct 2001
This book is a huge resource of ideas for class activities, for one student or a full class. These are all easily adaptable to suit individual requirements and level of competence. As a relatively new tutor of English to ESOL students, I am finding this a real treasure. All of the activities have examples and hints to extend the scope of the ideas. For the experienced teacher or for the newcomer, this is the sort of book one would refer to over and over again. I especially like the fact that I can adapt the ideas to suit my own style and the requirements of my widely disparate students.

this is a brilliant book, 08 Dec 2000
all kinds of activities involved in this book:pictures, games, roleplay etc....but your students need to have at least an intermediate level or certain activities will be very boring for the teacher if your pupils don't have enough vocabulary

The most useful resource book for language teachers around., 03 Apr 1999
Everybody wants to borrow this book from me and not return it! It is the most useful collection of short activities for language teachers available...you can practically open it anywhere, walk into the class and do it...and be sure of success!

Delighted, 18 Mar 2008
I have found this book invaluable (along with Petty's previous book 'Teaching Today') in providing me with numerous ideas for active teaching. The ideas can be adapted for almost any subject and mean delivering sessions is now so much more enjoyable. The research findings behind these ideas makes so much sense and has completely changed my approach to teaching. Geoff Petty's website is worth a visit for additional information and video lectures.

essential for teachers, 13 Feb 2008
If you only buy one book about teaching - get this one.

Teachers are bombarded with books about teaching which claim success for the authors pet ideas. Rarely is any proper evidence offered.
This book is quite different. It simply looks at all the research evidence available and gives practical ways to implement best practice.

Petty has deep insight into the way children learn and has distilled key ideas and general principles.

He recognises that teachers do not improve by simply repeating other people's good ideas. He recommends (and gives evidence to back it up) that schools develop a culture of teachers discussing learning, trying out different ideas and sharing best practice. It is this dynamic which creates excellent schools - not the implementation of the latest government edict.



Inspiring and insightful, 07 Aug 2007
I used this text to support a continuing professional development course in active learning that I taught to practicing teachers. The focus on an evidence-based approach was very effective in convincing the class that these methods can be applied in a manner that promotes greater student achievement, holistic development and an engaging, rewarding challenge to the teachers themselves.

There is a wealth of useful information condensed in this book with an immediate examination of the methodologies that are shown to have the greatest positive impact on teaching and learning. This encourages experimentation from the beginning and several of my students took to "Assessment for Learning" with a passion. In fact, formative assessment is examined throughout the text.

The structure of learning is thoroughly examined with context provided by a useful summary of the SOLO taxonomy. This emphasis on structure is continued throughout the text and on completion of our course most teachers had gained considerable insight into the epistemology of their subjects in a way that allowed them to encourage critical thinking skills in their students.

There are chapters on teaching "thinking skills" that should be read by anyone engaged in teaching as they are very thought provoking and provide practical advice as to how to add these skills to typical classes. The book is supported by an excellent website that provides additional information and useful handouts.

I have no hesitation in recommending this book as a thought provoking text. It is unfortunate that there are some editing errors that can irritate, and poor organisation in places - don't get frustrated though; I am convinced that careful reading of this book will add a richness to your teaching.

A Masterclass in Teaching, 08 Sep 2008
I was fortunate enough to be taught by Geoff Petty when I was taking my Cert. Ed. It spoke volumes that, while other lecturers' classes were sporadically attended, it was difficult to get a seat in Geoff's classes!

This man is an inspirational teacher and it comes across in his writing, which is full of easy-to-follow concepts and examples. If you aspire to be an inspirational teacher too, or if you're just trying to find ways in which to get through the day a bit more easily, then you need this book on your shelves.

The Bible for Student Teachers , 10 Apr 2008
I started off by using a library book but soon resorted to buying my personal copy. This book has lived on my bedside table for nearly three years, has been mentioned in nearly all of my esssays and gives me guidance and advice on my teaching.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Straight-talking, sense-making; its like the voice of reason on paper. Love it!

Good reference book for PGCE, 01 Feb 2008
I am doing my PGCE compulsory course which I find very frustrating, the workshops are full of terms and jargons with no links between the different subjects. This book can be considered as a well organized book written in a clear language giving good background with good links between the different topics. It is a book which can be used as a helpful reference text book you can refer to as you are doing your PGCE.

Teaching me to teach my students, 06 Oct 2007
This book features heavily in my ITT course at university and for good reason, it is packed with well written and helpful information for any teacher (not just trainees).

The book covers such topics as how we learn, questioning techniques, behavioural advice and assessment.

This is by far the best book I have read on pedagogy.


Really Good, 30 Jun 2007
I am studying for my Cert Ed. This book was recommended by my tutor. It is really good. It is easy to read & puts the point across simply & clearly.

A good one for english teachers, 30 Jun 2008
The title of this book may lead you to believe the author to be of a strict and dominating character in the class room. This perception is wrong. Instead you can find a calm 'firm but fun' attitude to behavoirable management and teaching in general. I would definately guess Ms Cowley to be an english teacher and describes lesson plans for conceptual subjects; the arts.

The book explains throughly ideas and tips for getting a student's attention and respect though uses a possibly naieve view of the average student. As a young teacher I remember being a student myself recently and I think that some of these methods wouldn't work on badly behaved students because they rely too much on the analysis of self the author explains will calm them down and the idea that explaination of the rules will calm a hot headed student.

I prefer to be a bit more strict than Ms Cowley when I'm teaching and would not reason with a misbehaving student as much as she does, but I certainly share her philiosophy of a fun teacher being a better teacher. I found very few tips useful for science lessons in this book, but theres a science teaching book available by the author should you enjoy the style of this book.

This said, I certainly believe that these tips will be very useful in my future carreer for dealing with the average student, rather than the badly behaved. This book was excellent fun to read; I got through it in one night! Well worth the price.

Oozing with good advice, 05 May 2007
OK, so I admit I started reading this with a giant pinch of salt at the ready. It was unnecessary. I've been teaching for almost thirty years now, I've seen many ( too many ) changes in that time and if I had to give a book to a trainee teacher then this would be the one.

Children are not the enemy - they are children - even the 18 year olds - and this book offers much sound advice to keep you sane and happy through your teaching career.

This is an excellent guide to one of the best professions in the world.

A little thin on the ground, 04 Jan 2007
I found this a little simplisitic and thin on the ground. Having been lucky enough to be lectured by her on behaviour in person on my PGCE I know she really does know what she's talking about and can communicate with great clarity and humour. I prefer Bill Roger' "You know the fair rule" as a far more comprehensive guide to behaviour management.


A brilliant start or intervention to classroom management., 27 Aug 2006
We've all heard it before. If kids missbehave in your lesson you must "Inspire" them, or plan the lesson better, or be more "enthaustic" or blah, blah, blah. I generally cut out at this point because, like most teachers, I'm doing all of the above and I know even the best planned and most exciting lesson can go wrong.

I picked up this book half way through my PGCE and all the advice it gave clicked into place and rapidly improved my classroom management and immediently helped my teaching.

What makes it so effective is that Sue is mearly human herself, who has learnt how to be a good teacher over the years. The book shows a great understanding of what it's like to be a teacher and how difficult it can be managing certain classes or just making a good lesson go even better.

This book it demonstrates how to get pupils to do as you say, how to get them to want to behave and how to manage it all when things do go wrong without stressing yourself out to much. All the factors that make slesson more positive.
Cowley manages to to do all this in a practical fashion with numerous examples of different real life situations.

It's written in such a easy to follow fashion that it ends up being more helpful than anyother educational book (excluding Bill Rogers) or LEA confrence you'll ever read or attend.

You may not want to do things 100% as Sue Cowley susgests, but there is ample material with lots of different ideas that do work so you can remix them into your own personnal style.

An excellent tool for any teacher who wants sensible advice on improving their classroom management. Advice that actually helps.

I should add that the only negative review on this book is by somebody who hasn't actually tried out the techniques given out. They just complain about it repeating itself in different ways. They have unfortuantly missed the point that being able to repeat things in different ways or use different techniques of saying the same thing in different situations is one of the most important skills a good teacher requires.

a teachers must have, 08 Jul 2006
this is a must have for all who teach or want to teach.

its the teachers bible, one of Sue Cowleys many fantastic books with great helpful hints.

Gives us the insight we all need to help with the daily routine of school life.

I LIVE BY THIS BOOK.

The "nuts and bolts" of behaviour control., 13 Jul 2008
I moved over, asked him how his work was going, and, before parting, quietly said: "The bin's over there" (gesturing with my eyes to the bin). He smiled, walked over to the bin, and spat out his chewing gum.

That's what happened when I put Bill Rodger's specific guidance to common classroom problems into practice: it worked! In the past I used to take a more aggressive manner, sticking a foul-smelling bin under the nose of any child which chew in my class--this inevitably disrupted the flow of the lesson for the whole class as they protested at the unfairness.

This book is explicit in describing what to communicate (verbally and through body language) in managing a class, and breaks down the "firm but fair" approach into its core-components. It's easy to read, and the messages black-and-white. He adds real-life teaching stories which not only put his guidance into a classroom perspective, but make for amusing reading!

I wish I had read this book before my PGCE, rather than at the end.

Excellent book, 15 May 2008
I'm starting teaching soon, and the stuff I've learnt from this book has given what I think will be a great foundation. He backs up a lot of his points with real-life examples so you can immediately see what he's getting at. I would definately recommend this book.

solid, helpful advice, 22 Apr 2007
Very practical advice that makes you think 'that happened to me' and gives you alternatives ways of looking at and dealing with those incredibly frustrating and, sometimes, upsetting moments in a classroom when behaviour is not what you would consider 'the norm' (or so we hope).

The best book any teacher could buy, 08 Jan 2007
I work in quite a challenging school. During my first 2 years of training I really did question whether teaching was for me. I had bought similar books (getting buggers to behave, etc) but was not overly inspired. However, a friend had mentioned the author and claimed he was fantastic. I bought the book not really expecting much. However, each of his suggestions and explanations were so brilliant and easy that I couldn't wait to try them out. I'm in my 5th year of teaching and I still refer to the book. I have passed the book around my department and we all use the basic strategies. If you buy one book on teaching, get this one.

Amazing practical behaviour handbook for teachers, 30 Aug 2001
The book opens with a description of how the author failed at school and left after posting caricatures of the teachers on the school walls - as reported in the Daily Express. As a new teacher, having previously worked in supply, I wondered how I would possibly cope. This book was recommended by my headteacher and gives practical methods for handling classes, setting rules, discipling and more. The book details how to set class rules with a classroom meeting (or in circle time in Primary) and refers discipline problems back to these jointly developed rules. However this book really is a practical guide and is full of real examples of both bad and good teaching practice taken from both the author's own teaching experience and from working as a consultant. It realy is frightening to see what you have done wrong and what you should have done instead! If the contents of this book were taught in PGCE courses we wouldn't have anywhere near the bahavioural problems we see in schools today. If you a teacher - buy this book - especially if you are a NQT

Not just for English teachers., 03 Apr 2007
This is great for any time of the year but more so when you need a quick start to a lesson or a change during a lesson. I use it sometimes as a pre-starter for the times when pupils aren't arriving all at the same time (after break or lunch). I also use it when I announce to the class "let's have a change as you are working extremely hard" little do they know I planned this and have already identified the activity!

I have taught English in a 'good' school, a school where some pupils are very weak and more recently in a special school for EBD. It gets used in all of them!

A fab resource not just for English teachers.

First wek survival, 30 Aug 2002
A super book for the first week of term! Helps you to analyse children literacy ability as well as having fun with them. Also a good source of INSET introductory games.

A very useful tool book, 30 Oct 2001
This book is a huge resource of ideas for class activities, for one student or a full class. These are all easily adaptable to suit individual requirements and level of competence. As a relatively new tutor of English to ESOL students, I am finding this a real treasure. All of the activities have examples and hints to extend the scope of the ideas. For the experienced teacher or for the newcomer, this is the sort of book one would refer to over and over again. I especially like the fact that I can adapt the ideas to suit my own style and the requirements of my widely disparate students.

this is a brilliant book, 08 Dec 2000
all kinds of activities involved in this book:pictures, games, roleplay etc....but your students need to have at least an intermediate level or certain activities will be very boring for the teacher if your pupils don't have enough vocabulary

The most useful resource book for language teachers around., 03 Apr 1999
Everybody wants to borrow this book from me and not return it! It is the most useful collection of short activities for language teachers available...you can practically open it anywhere, walk into the class and do it...and be sure of success!

Delighted, 18 Mar 2008
I have found this book invaluable (along with Petty's previous book 'Teaching Today') in providing me with numerous ideas for active teaching. The ideas can be adapted for almost any subject and mean delivering sessions is now so much more enjoyable. The research findings behind these ideas makes so much sense and has completely changed my approach to teaching. Geoff Petty's website is worth a visit for additional information and video lectures.

essential for teachers, 13 Feb 2008
If you only buy one book about teaching - get this one.

Teachers are bombarded with books about teaching which claim success for the authors pet ideas. Rarely is any proper evidence offered.
This book is quite different. It simply looks at all the research evidence available and gives practical ways to implement best practice.

Petty has deep insight into the way children learn and has distilled key ideas and general principles.

He recognises that teachers do not improve by simply repeating other people's good ideas. He recommends (and gives evidence to back it up) that schools develop a culture of teachers discussing learning, trying out different ideas and sharing best practice. It is this dynamic which creates excellent schools - not the implementation of the latest government edict.



Inspiring and insightful, 07 Aug 2007
I used this text to support a continuing professional development course in active learning that I taught to practicing teachers. The focus on an evidence-based approach was very effective in convincing the class that these methods can be applied in a manner that promotes greater student achievement, holistic development and an engaging, rewarding challenge to the teachers themselves.

There is a wealth of useful information condensed in this book with an immediate examination of the methodologies that are shown to have the greatest positive impact on teaching and learning. This encourages experimentation from the beginning and several of my students took to "Assessment for Learning" with a passion. In fact, formative assessment is examined throughout the text.

The structure of learning is thoroughly examined with context provided by a useful summary of the SOLO taxonomy. This emphasis on structure is continued throughout the text and on completion of our course most teachers had gained considerable insight into the epistemology of their subjects in a way that allowed them to encourage critical thinking skills in their students.

There are chapters on teaching "thinking skills" that should be read by anyone engaged in teaching as they are very thought provoking and provide practical advice as to how to add these skills to typical classes. The book is supported by an excellent website that provides additional information and useful handouts.

I have no hesitation in recommending this book as a thought provoking text. It is unfortunate that there are some editing errors that can irritate, and poor organisation in places - don't get frustrated though; I am convinced that careful reading of this book will add a richness to your teaching.


Marvellous, but just a little caution advised., 20 Nov 2008
I'm an adult literacy and numeracy tutor and always looking for interesting ways of making information accessible to my students. This is an absolutely marvellous book, but I won't be recommending it to too many of them. The reason is that whilst being very well written, it does require a higher level of literacy skills than many books that are written for adult learners. I loved reading all the interesting facts and the way that Lawrence made mathematics come alive for me, but I know that many of my students don't want that. They have dyslexia and they want a book that is easy to read and tells them what they need to know.

For all that, I can't give this book any less than five. How, oh how, I wish I had read this as a student thirty-five years ago. So, if you are highly literate and highly innumerate, GET THIS - it's fantastic.

If you merely want to understand mathematics in a plain, no frills format get Chambers' Adult Learners Guide To Numeracy which does the job nicely.

Great backdrop to a beautiful subject!, 28 Apr 2008
I think this is a fantastic book. I teach mathematics at secondary school and found this book to be a great source of material for improving the clarity of explanations I give on basic mathematics... As a teacher I couldn't recommend it highly enough to other teachers; the book also provides a bank of neat little puzzles, some more challenging than others, and all amusing to read. EXCELLENT STUFF!!

Mathematics Minus Fear, 04 Feb 2008
For someone who has had a fear of mathmatics for many years, this book is fantastic, and actually very funny. Lawrence Potter walks you through how to add, divide, multiply, how to work out percentages in a non patronising way. Recommended.

Essential Open University Preparation, 25 Oct 2006
If you are in your 40s about to challenge your fear of Maths and claim back the night with an Open University Maths Degree this book is a great primer.
Essential therapy, like easing yourself into a cool pool on a baking hot day.

Fantastic - I am now a countdown genuis!!, 07 May 2006
I LOVE this book! I have been hopeless at maths since secondary school and when I came across it in a local bookstore read a few pages and thought it had to be worth a try - couquering my maths demons and all that!
It's written really well and he explains the history behind how and why we are taught maths the way we are in schools and, if you like, the evolution of the maths we use everyday!
I decided it was worth every penny when I could answer a question about binary in a local pub quiz! The question was how is the number 19 represented in binary? - the answer is in the book - needless to say my friends were very impressed!!

A Masterclass in Teaching, 08 Sep 2008
I was fortunate enough to be taught by Geoff Petty when I was taking my Cert. Ed. It spoke volumes that, while other lecturers' classes were sporadically attended, it was difficult to get a seat in Geoff's classes!

This man is an inspirational teacher and it comes across in his writing, which is full of easy-to-follow concepts and examples. If you aspire to be an inspirational teacher too, or if you're just trying to find ways in which to get through the day a bit more easily, then you need this book on your shelves.

The Bible for Student Teachers , 10 Apr 2008
I started off by using a library book but soon resorted to buying my personal copy. This book has lived on my bedside table for nearly three years, has been mentioned in nearly all of my esssays and gives me guidance and advice on my teaching.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Straight-talking, sense-making; its like the voice of reason on paper. Love it!

Good reference book for PGCE, 01 Feb 2008
I am doing my PGCE compulsory course which I find very frustrating, the workshops are full of terms and jargons with no links between the different subjects. This book can be considered as a well organized book written in a clear language giving good background with good links between the different topics. It is a book which can be used as a helpful reference text book you can refer to as you are doing your PGCE.

Teaching me to teach my students, 06 Oct 2007
This book features heavily in my ITT course at university and for good reason, it is packed with well written and helpful information for any teacher (not just trainees).

The book covers such topics as how we learn, questioning techniques, behavioural advice and assessment.

This is by far the best book I have read on pedagogy.


Really Good, 30 Jun 2007
I am studying for my Cert Ed. This book was recommended by my tutor. It is really good. It is easy to read & puts the point across simply & clearly.

A good one for english teachers, 30 Jun 2008
The title of this book may lead you to believe the author to be of a strict and dominating character in the class room. This perception is wrong. Instead you can find a calm 'firm but fun' attitude to behavoirable management and teaching in general. I would definately guess Ms Cowley to be an english teacher and describes lesson plans for conceptual subjects; the arts.

The book explains throughly ideas and tips for getting a student's attention and respect though uses a possibly naieve view of the average student. As a young teacher I remember being a student myself recently and I think that some of these methods wouldn't work on badly behaved students because they rely too much on the analysis of self the author explains will calm them down and the idea that explaination of the rules will calm a hot headed student.

I prefer to be a bit more strict than Ms Cowley when I'm teaching and would not reason with a misbehaving student as much as she does, but I certainly share her philiosophy of a fun teacher being a better teacher. I found very few tips useful for science lessons in this book, but theres a science teaching book available by the author should you enjoy the style of this book.

This said, I certainly believe that these tips will be very useful in my future carreer for dealing with the average student, rather than the badly behaved. This book was excellent fun to read; I got through it in one night! Well worth the price.

Oozing with good advice, 05 May 2007
OK, so I admit I started reading this with a giant pinch of salt at the ready. It was unnecessary. I've been teaching for almost thirty years now, I've seen many ( too many ) changes in that time and if I had to give a book to a trainee teacher then this would be the one.

Children are not the enemy - they are children - even the 18 year olds - and this book offers much sound advice to keep you sane and happy through your teaching career.

This is an excellent guide to one of the best professions in the world.

A little thin on the ground, 04 Jan 2007
I found this a little simplisitic and thin on the ground. Having been lucky enough to be lectured by her on behaviour in person on my PGCE I know she really does know what she's talking about and can communicate with great clarity and humour. I prefer Bill Roger' "You know the fair rule" as a far more comprehensive guide to behaviour management.


A brilliant start or intervention to classroom management., 27 Aug 2006
We've all heard it before. If kids missbehave in your lesson you must "Inspire" them, or plan the lesson better, or be more "enthaustic" or blah, blah, blah. I generally cut out at this point because, like most teachers, I'm doing all of the above and I know even the best planned and most exciting lesson can go wrong.

I picked up this book half way through my PGCE and all the advice it gave clicked into place and rapidly improved my classroom management and immediently helped my teaching.

What makes it so effective is that Sue is mearly human herself, who has learnt how to be a good teacher over the years. The book shows a great understanding of what it's like to be a teacher and how difficult it can be managing certain classes or just making a good lesson go even better.

This book it demonstrates how to get pupils to do as you say, how to get them to want to behave and how to manage it all when things do go wrong without stressing yourself out to much. All the factors that make slesson more positive.
Cowley manages to to do all this in a practical fashion with numerous examples of different real life situations.

It's written in such a easy to follow fashion that it ends up being more helpful than anyother educational book (excluding Bill Rogers) or LEA confrence you'll ever read or attend.

You may not want to do things 100% as Sue Cowley susgests, but there is ample material with lots of different ideas that do work so you can remix them into your own personnal style.

An excellent tool for any teacher who wants sensible advice on improving their classroom management. Advice that actually helps.

I should add that the only negative review on this book is by somebody who hasn't actually tried out the techniques given out. They just complain about it repeating itself in different ways. They have unfortuantly missed the point that being able to repeat things in different ways or use different techniques of saying the same thing in different situations is one of the most important skills a good teacher requires.

a teachers must have, 08 Jul 2006
this is a must have for all who teach or want to teach.

its the teachers bible, one of Sue Cowleys many fantastic books with great helpful hints.

Gives us the insight we all need to help with the daily routine of school life.

I LIVE BY THIS BOOK.

The "nuts and bolts" of behaviour control., 13 Jul 2008
I moved over, asked him how his work was going, and, before parting, quietly said: "The bin's over there" (gesturing with my eyes to the bin). He smiled, walked over to the bin, and spat out his chewing gum.

That's what happened when I put Bill Rodger's specific guidance to common classroom problems into practice: it worked! In the past I used to take a more aggressive manner, sticking a foul-smelling bin under the nose of any child which chew in my class--this inevitably disrupted the flow of the lesson for the whole class as they protested at the unfairness.

This book is explicit in describing what to communicate (verbally and through body language) in managing a class, and breaks down the "firm but fair" approach into its core-components. It's easy to read, and the messages black-and-white. He adds real-life teaching stories which not only put his guidance into a classroom perspective, but make for amusing reading!

I wish I had read this book before my PGCE, rather than at the end.

Excellent book, 15 May 2008
I'm starting teaching soon, and the stuff I've learnt from this book has given what I think will be a great foundation. He backs up a lot of his points with real-life examples so you can immediately see what he's getting at. I would definately recommend this book.

solid, helpful advice, 22 Apr 2007
Very practical advice that makes you think 'that happened to me' and gives you alternatives ways of looking at and dealing with those incredibly frustrating and, sometimes, upsetting moments in a classroom when behaviour is not what you would consider 'the norm' (or so we hope).

The best book any teacher could buy, 08 Jan 2007
I work in quite a challenging school. During my first 2 years of training I really did question whether teaching was for me. I had bought similar books (getting buggers to behave, etc) but was not overly inspired. However, a friend had mentioned the author and claimed he was fantastic. I bought the book not really expecting much. However, each of his suggestions and explanations were so brilliant and easy that I couldn't wait to try them out. I'm in my 5th year of teaching and I still refer to the book. I have passed the book around my department and we all use the basic strategies. If you buy one book on teaching, get this one.

Amazing practical behaviour handbook for teachers, 30 Aug 2001
The book opens with a description of how the author failed at school and left after posting caricatures of the teachers on the school walls - as reported in the Daily Express. As a new teacher, having previously worked in supply, I wondered how I would possibly cope. This book was recommended by my headteacher and gives practical methods for handling classes, setting rules, discipling and more. The book details how to set class rules with a classroom meeting (or in circle time in Primary) and refers discipline problems back to these jointly developed rules. However this book really is a practical guide and is full of real examples of both bad and good teaching practice taken from both the author's own teaching experience and from working as a consultant. It realy is frightening to see what you have done wrong and what you should have done instead! If the contents of this book were taught in PGCE courses we wouldn't have anywhere near the bahavioural problems we see in schools today. If you a teacher - buy this book - especially if you are a NQT

Not just for English teachers., 03 Apr 2007
This is great for any time of the year but more so when you need a quick start to a lesson or a change during a lesson. I use it sometimes as a pre-starter for the times when pupils aren't arriving all at the same time (after break or lunch). I also use it when I announce to the class "let's have a change as you are working extremely hard" little do they know I planned this and have already identified the activity!

I have taught English in a 'good' school, a school where some pupils are very weak and more recently in a special school for EBD. It gets used in all of them!

A fab resource not just for English teachers.

First wek survival, 30 Aug 2002
A super book for the first week of term! Helps you to analyse children literacy ability as well as having fun with them. Also a good source of INSET introductory games.

A very useful tool book, 30 Oct 2001
This book is a huge resource of ideas for class activities, for one student or a full class. These are all easily adaptable to suit individual requirements and level of competence. As a relatively new tutor of English to ESOL students, I am finding this a real treasure. All of the activities have examples and hints to extend the scope of the ideas. For the experienced teacher or for the newcomer, this is the sort of book one would refer to over and over again. I especially like the fact that I can adapt the ideas to suit my own style and the requirements of my widely disparate students.

this is a brilliant book, 08 Dec 2000
all kinds of activities involved in this book:pictures, games, roleplay etc....but your students need to have at least an intermediate level or certain activities will be very boring for the teacher if your pupils don't have enough vocabulary

The most useful resource book for language teachers around., 03 Apr 1999
Everybody wants to borrow this book from me and not return it! It is the most useful collection of short activities for language teachers available...you can practically open it anywhere, walk into the class and do it...and be sure of success!

Delighted, 18 Mar 2008
I have found this book invaluable (along with Petty's previous book 'Teaching Today') in providing me with numerous ideas for active teaching. The ideas can be adapted for almost any subject and mean delivering sessions is now so much more enjoyable. The research findings behind these ideas makes so much sense and has completely changed my approach to teaching. Geoff Petty's website is worth a visit for additional information and video lectures.

essential for teachers, 13 Feb 2008
If you only buy one book about teaching - get this one.

Teachers are bombarded with books about teaching which claim success for the authors pet ideas. Rarely is any proper evidence offered.
This book is quite different. It simply looks at all the research evidence available and gives practical ways to implement best practice.

Petty has deep insight into the way children learn and has distilled key ideas and general principles.

He recognises that teachers do not improve by simply repeating other people's good ideas. He recommends (and gives evidence to back it up) that schools develop a culture of teachers discussing learning, trying out different ideas and sharing best practice. It is this dynamic which creates excellent schools - not the implementation of the latest government edict.



Inspiring and insightful, 07 Aug 2007
I used this text to support a continuing professional development course in active learning that I taught to practicing teachers. The focus on an evidence-based approach was very effective in convincing the class that these methods can be applied in a manner that promotes greater student achievement, holistic development and an engaging, rewarding challenge to the teachers themselves.

There is a wealth of useful information condensed in this book with an immediate examination of the methodologies that are shown to have the greatest positive impact on teaching and learning. This encourages experimentation from the beginning and several of my students took to "Assessment for Learning" with a passion. In fact, formative assessment is examined throughout the text.

The structure of learning is thoroughly examined with context provided by a useful summary of the SOLO taxonomy. This emphasis on structure is continued throughout the text and on completion of our course most teachers had gained considerable insight into the epistemology of their subjects in a way that allowed them to encourage critical thinking skills in their students.

There are chapters on teaching "thinking skills" that should be read by anyone engaged in teaching as they are very thought provoking and provide practical advice as to how to add these skills to typical classes. The book is supported by an excellent website that provides additional information and useful handouts.

I have no hesitation in recommending this book as a thought provoking text. It is unfortunate that there are some editing errors that can irritate, and poor organisation in places - don't get frustrated though; I am convinced that careful reading of this book will add a richness to your teaching.


Marvellous, but just a little caution advised., 20 Nov 2008
I'm an adult literacy and numeracy tutor and always looking for interesting ways of making information accessible to my students. This is an absolutely marvellous book, but I won't be recommending it to too many of them. The reason is that whilst being very well written, it does require a higher level of literacy skills than many books that are written for adult learners. I loved reading all the interesting facts and the way that Lawrence made mathematics come alive for me, but I know that many of my students don't want that. They have dyslexia and they want a book that is easy to read and tells them what they need to know.

For all that, I can't give this book any less than five. How, oh how, I wish I had read this as a student thirty-five years ago. So, if you are highly literate and highly innumerate, GET THIS - it's fantastic.

If you merely want to understand mathematics in a plain, no frills format get Chambers' Adult Learners Guide To Numeracy which does the job nicely.

Great backdrop to a beautiful subject!, 28 Apr 2008
I think this is a fantastic book. I teach mathematics at secondary school and found this book to be a great source of material for improving the clarity of explanations I give on basic mathematics... As a teacher I couldn't recommend it highly enough to other teachers; the book also provides a bank of neat little puzzles, some more challenging than others, and all amusing to read. EXCELLENT STUFF!!

Mathematics Minus Fear, 04 Feb 2008
For someone who has had a fear of mathmatics for many years, this book is fantastic, and actually very funny. Lawrence Potter walks you through how to add, divide, multiply, how to work out percentages in a non patronising way. Recommended.

Essential Open University Preparation, 25 Oct 2006
If you are in your 40s about to challenge your fear of Maths and claim back the night with an Open University Maths Degree this book is a great primer.
Essential therapy, like easing yourself into a cool pool on a baking hot day.

Fantastic - I am now a countdown genuis!!, 07 May 2006
I LOVE this book! I have been hopeless at maths since secondary school and when I came across it in a local bookstore read a few pages and thought it had to be worth a try - couquering my maths demons and all that!
It's written really well and he explains the history behind how and why we are taught maths the way we are in schools and, if you like, the evolution of the maths we use everyday!
I decided it was worth every penny when I could answer a question about binary in a local pub quiz! The question was how is the number 19 represented in binary? - the answer is in the book - needless to say my friends were very impressed!!

A Great book for facilitators, 05 Sep 2008
This is a great book for facilitators who need to find activities for their workshops or students. Plus Amazon.com/uk is a great site. I received my book within a week. Excellent!!!

Some useful activities, 15 Dec 2004
This book has some really good activities that I used with particularly disruptive children who were at risk from being excluded at lunch-times. As usual with these types of books, some activities are more useful than others, but then children change too!!

This was a good buy if you are interested in behavaiour management at school, and can afford to work with smaller groups for those who require it.

104 Games ready to use for Teachers, Therapist & Leaders, 26 Apr 1999
This is a GREAT book for Sp.Ed.Teachers,Teachers, Counselors,Church group leaders and families. Children, teens and adults can all learn more about themselves while having a good time. This book works on Self-Esteem, Coping Skills, Communication, Anger Management, Self-Discovery and Teamwork. Each game is prepared with Objectives, Audience, Group size, Materials, Description, Discussion prompts and Variations for 104 EXCITING GAMES. Most of these games can be played with ordinary household or classroom materials. Alanna Jones has also wtitten another HELPFUL and FUN BOOK called The Wrecking Yard.