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 Customer Reviews
A useful study resource on theorists and their influence, 25 Oct 2008
A clear and well set out book detailing approximately 20 theorists who have had influences in the way we approach early years education.
I would normally dip in and out of text books but this one I was happy to read as it's set out in such a undemanding and informative way.
The book is set out with headings about each theorist's;
- Life and upbringing
- Books and writing
- Their theory
- How those theories have been put into practise and their influence
The author also critiques the theories and provides web sites and books to find out more about each one.
Whilst it's definitely a useful book and one I've found interesting, I had hoped to find some information on Maslow, Rogers or Kelly so was slightly disappointed they weren't mentioned.
Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning
essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.
Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years
excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!
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Customer Reviews
A useful study resource on theorists and their influence, 25 Oct 2008
A clear and well set out book detailing approximately 20 theorists who have had influences in the way we approach early years education.
I would normally dip in and out of text books but this one I was happy to read as it's set out in such a undemanding and informative way.
The book is set out with headings about each theorist's;
- Life and upbringing
- Books and writing
- Their theory
- How those theories have been put into practise and their influence
The author also critiques the theories and provides web sites and books to find out more about each one.
Whilst it's definitely a useful book and one I've found interesting, I had hoped to find some information on Maslow, Rogers or Kelly so was slightly disappointed they weren't mentioned.
Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning
essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.
Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years
excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!
A must have book, 30 Aug 2007
I love it! The children in my class love it!
It is full of literacy starters and games to get children thinking. It fits really well with the Ros Wilson 2020 / Big Writing and the Literacy Hour.
I wouldn't be without it.
A must for any teacher!, 23 Jun 2007
I have Jumpstart for over 3 years now and it has been invaluable in my Literacy planning. The games are split into sections, some are quick, others need more time - but all of the games are wonderful. My class has several firm favourites, and I have been particularly happy with the spelling games, of which many are now being played at the children's home whilst learning their spellings for the week. Jumpstart games can be applied to any year group and I would recommend it to any Teacher.
A good starting point, 03 Apr 2007
I've used a few of the activities in this book 'as they stand' and they have worked very well with my Y7-Y8 classes who are about Level 2 - Level 4.
I don't feel it is something you could refer to as an emergency 10 minutes before the lesson starts. I have to either incorporate the activities into schemes of work or refer to it the night before/morning.
Covers all range of literacy activities and is an excellent resource in that respect.
Handy for the classroom, 28 Nov 2006
This has been a great classroom tool. It is easy read and has some great ideas. Some of them you may have already thought of, but on those rainy days when your brain just isn't working, it's great to be able to flip through the pages and find an inspiring starter. Or, in some cases the inspiration for a greta lessons; there are some lovely writing workshop ideas included. Great for 7-14's. A must have for every teachers tool box.
Thoroughly Useful!, 22 Feb 2005
Suitable for upper KS2 and secondary level, this is a great collection of literacy starters and warm-up activites. Many of the activities and games could be adapted for KS1 and lower junior. Corbett covers virtually every aspect of sentence structure and language use in this gem. He is an inspiring writer and his ideas have really livened up the start of literacy lessons in my year 5 class.
Highly recommended!
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Customer Reviews
A useful study resource on theorists and their influence, 25 Oct 2008
A clear and well set out book detailing approximately 20 theorists who have had influences in the way we approach early years education.
I would normally dip in and out of text books but this one I was happy to read as it's set out in such a undemanding and informative way.
The book is set out with headings about each theorist's;
- Life and upbringing
- Books and writing
- Their theory
- How those theories have been put into practise and their influence
The author also critiques the theories and provides web sites and books to find out more about each one.
Whilst it's definitely a useful book and one I've found interesting, I had hoped to find some information on Maslow, Rogers or Kelly so was slightly disappointed they weren't mentioned.
Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning
essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.
Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years
excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!
A must have book, 30 Aug 2007
I love it! The children in my class love it!
It is full of literacy starters and games to get children thinking. It fits really well with the Ros Wilson 2020 / Big Writing and the Literacy Hour.
I wouldn't be without it.
A must for any teacher!, 23 Jun 2007
I have Jumpstart for over 3 years now and it has been invaluable in my Literacy planning. The games are split into sections, some are quick, others need more time - but all of the games are wonderful. My class has several firm favourites, and I have been particularly happy with the spelling games, of which many are now being played at the children's home whilst learning their spellings for the week. Jumpstart games can be applied to any year group and I would recommend it to any Teacher.
A good starting point, 03 Apr 2007
I've used a few of the activities in this book 'as they stand' and they have worked very well with my Y7-Y8 classes who are about Level 2 - Level 4.
I don't feel it is something you could refer to as an emergency 10 minutes before the lesson starts. I have to either incorporate the activities into schemes of work or refer to it the night before/morning.
Covers all range of literacy activities and is an excellent resource in that respect.
Handy for the classroom, 28 Nov 2006
This has been a great classroom tool. It is easy read and has some great ideas. Some of them you may have already thought of, but on those rainy days when your brain just isn't working, it's great to be able to flip through the pages and find an inspiring starter. Or, in some cases the inspiration for a greta lessons; there are some lovely writing workshop ideas included. Great for 7-14's. A must have for every teachers tool box.
Thoroughly Useful!, 22 Feb 2005
Suitable for upper KS2 and secondary level, this is a great collection of literacy starters and warm-up activites. Many of the activities and games could be adapted for KS1 and lower junior. Corbett covers virtually every aspect of sentence structure and language use in this gem. He is an inspiring writer and his ideas have really livened up the start of literacy lessons in my year 5 class.
Highly recommended!
alphabet, 18 May 2008
This is the book to buy on teaching this subject. It is clearly written, beautifully laid out and provides self assessment exercises to work through in order to clarify what has just been read. There are more provided on the cd rom at the back of the book too. If you are teaching this subject for the first time, moving up or down years or simply want to refresh your knowledge and rekindle your enthusiasm then this is the book for you.
A lifesaver, 13 Apr 2008
This book is a must for trainee teachers lacking confidence with their maths knowledge and teaching. The author empathises with the trepidation of maths, and offers clear and simple explanations. The chapters are clearly divided for when you need that quick knowledge top-up when lesson planning, and the self-test questions are a great confidence boost! The book also offers techniques that complement the new NNS teaching strategies (e.g. partitioning, multiplication grids etc).
Superb!, 24 Nov 2006
After teaching primary maths for 14 years, and being the KS2 maths subject leader for 13 of those, I have no hesitation in rating this easily the best book I have ever read on the subject. Forget all those expensive courses, and trying to negotiate the endless tweaking of the NNS, save money by using this book to deliver a series of INSETs. Unbeatable value!
Simply Fabulous!!, 04 Oct 2006
When I was told at the start of my teacher training course that I would need to buy this maths text book, I let out a big groan. I remembered all of those maths textbooks from when I was actually AT school and remembered how utterly boring they were. But since working through this book and completeing the end of chapter self-assessment questions, my confidence in maths has soared! A must have for teachers-to-be, especially those who are a bit shakey on their maths knowledge!
Good for parents!, 11 Sep 2006
I was lent this book by my son's teacher because I wanted a better understanding of what he was being taught in maths in order to help him at home. I really enjoyed reading it, revising things I'd forgetten and understanding the current approachs to teaching arithmetic in particular.
It has helped me to practice maths with my children and has also made me more personally appreciative and confident in the subject.
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Customer Reviews
A useful study resource on theorists and their influence, 25 Oct 2008
A clear and well set out book detailing approximately 20 theorists who have had influences in the way we approach early years education.
I would normally dip in and out of text books but this one I was happy to read as it's set out in such a undemanding and informative way.
The book is set out with headings about each theorist's;
- Life and upbringing
- Books and writing
- Their theory
- How those theories have been put into practise and their influence
The author also critiques the theories and provides web sites and books to find out more about each one.
Whilst it's definitely a useful book and one I've found interesting, I had hoped to find some information on Maslow, Rogers or Kelly so was slightly disappointed they weren't mentioned.
Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning
essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.
Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years
excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!
A must have book, 30 Aug 2007
I love it! The children in my class love it!
It is full of literacy starters and games to get children thinking. It fits really well with the Ros Wilson 2020 / Big Writing and the Literacy Hour.
I wouldn't be without it.
A must for any teacher!, 23 Jun 2007
I have Jumpstart for over 3 years now and it has been invaluable in my Literacy planning. The games are split into sections, some are quick, others need more time - but all of the games are wonderful. My class has several firm favourites, and I have been particularly happy with the spelling games, of which many are now being played at the children's home whilst learning their spellings for the week. Jumpstart games can be applied to any year group and I would recommend it to any Teacher.
A good starting point, 03 Apr 2007
I've used a few of the activities in this book 'as they stand' and they have worked very well with my Y7-Y8 classes who are about Level 2 - Level 4.
I don't feel it is something you could refer to as an emergency 10 minutes before the lesson starts. I have to either incorporate the activities into schemes of work or refer to it the night before/morning.
Covers all range of literacy activities and is an excellent resource in that respect.
Handy for the classroom, 28 Nov 2006
This has been a great classroom tool. It is easy read and has some great ideas. Some of them you may have already thought of, but on those rainy days when your brain just isn't working, it's great to be able to flip through the pages and find an inspiring starter. Or, in some cases the inspiration for a greta lessons; there are some lovely writing workshop ideas included. Great for 7-14's. A must have for every teachers tool box.
Thoroughly Useful!, 22 Feb 2005
Suitable for upper KS2 and secondary level, this is a great collection of literacy starters and warm-up activites. Many of the activities and games could be adapted for KS1 and lower junior. Corbett covers virtually every aspect of sentence structure and language use in this gem. He is an inspiring writer and his ideas have really livened up the start of literacy lessons in my year 5 class.
Highly recommended!
alphabet, 18 May 2008
This is the book to buy on teaching this subject. It is clearly written, beautifully laid out and provides self assessment exercises to work through in order to clarify what has just been read. There are more provided on the cd rom at the back of the book too. If you are teaching this subject for the first time, moving up or down years or simply want to refresh your knowledge and rekindle your enthusiasm then this is the book for you.
A lifesaver, 13 Apr 2008
This book is a must for trainee teachers lacking confidence with their maths knowledge and teaching. The author empathises with the trepidation of maths, and offers clear and simple explanations. The chapters are clearly divided for when you need that quick knowledge top-up when lesson planning, and the self-test questions are a great confidence boost! The book also offers techniques that complement the new NNS teaching strategies (e.g. partitioning, multiplication grids etc).
Superb!, 24 Nov 2006
After teaching primary maths for 14 years, and being the KS2 maths subject leader for 13 of those, I have no hesitation in rating this easily the best book I have ever read on the subject. Forget all those expensive courses, and trying to negotiate the endless tweaking of the NNS, save money by using this book to deliver a series of INSETs. Unbeatable value!
Simply Fabulous!!, 04 Oct 2006
When I was told at the start of my teacher training course that I would need to buy this maths text book, I let out a big groan. I remembered all of those maths textbooks from when I was actually AT school and remembered how utterly boring they were. But since working through this book and completeing the end of chapter self-assessment questions, my confidence in maths has soared! A must have for teachers-to-be, especially those who are a bit shakey on their maths knowledge!
Good for parents!, 11 Sep 2006
I was lent this book by my son's teacher because I wanted a better understanding of what he was being taught in maths in order to help him at home. I really enjoyed reading it, revising things I'd forgetten and understanding the current approachs to teaching arithmetic in particular.
It has helped me to practice maths with my children and has also made me more personally appreciative and confident in the subject.
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.
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Customer Reviews
A useful study resource on theorists and their influence, 25 Oct 2008
A clear and well set out book detailing approximately 20 theorists who have had influences in the way we approach early years education.
I would normally dip in and out of text books but this one I was happy to read as it's set out in such a undemanding and informative way.
The book is set out with headings about each theorist's;
- Life and upbringing
- Books and writing
- Their theory
- How those theories have been put into practise and their influence
The author also critiques the theories and provides web sites and books to find out more about each one.
Whilst it's definitely a useful book and one I've found interesting, I had hoped to find some information on Maslow, Rogers or Kelly so was slightly disappointed they weren't mentioned.
Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning
essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.
Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years
excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!
A must have book, 30 Aug 2007
I love it! The children in my class love it!
It is full of literacy starters and games to get children thinking. It fits really well with the Ros Wilson 2020 / Big Writing and the Literacy Hour.
I wouldn't be without it.
A must for any teacher!, 23 Jun 2007
I have Jumpstart for over 3 years now and it has been invaluable in my Literacy planning. The games are split into sections, some are quick, others need more time - but all of the games are wonderful. My class has several firm favourites, and I have been particularly happy with the spelling games, of which many are now being played at the children's home whilst learning their spellings for the week. Jumpstart games can be applied to any year group and I would recommend it to any Teacher.
A good starting point, 03 Apr 2007
I've used a few of the activities in this book 'as they stand' and they have worked very well with my Y7-Y8 classes who are about Level 2 - Level 4.
I don't feel it is something you could refer to as an emergency 10 minutes before the lesson starts. I have to either incorporate the activities into schemes of work or refer to it the night before/morning.
Covers all range of literacy activities and is an excellent resource in that respect.
Handy for the classroom, 28 Nov 2006
This has been a great classroom tool. It is easy read and has some great ideas. Some of them you may have already thought of, but on those rainy days when your brain just isn't working, it's great to be able to flip through the pages and find an inspiring starter. Or, in some cases the inspiration for a greta lessons; there are some lovely writing workshop ideas included. Great for 7-14's. A must have for every teachers tool box.
Thoroughly Useful!, 22 Feb 2005
Suitable for upper KS2 and secondary level, this is a great collection of literacy starters and warm-up activites. Many of the activities and games could be adapted for KS1 and lower junior. Corbett covers virtually every aspect of sentence structure and language use in this gem. He is an inspiring writer and his ideas have really livened up the start of literacy lessons in my year 5 class.
Highly recommended!
alphabet, 18 May 2008
This is the book to buy on teaching this subject. It is clearly written, beautifully laid out and provides self assessment exercises to work through in order to clarify what has just been read. There are more provided on the cd rom at the back of the book too. If you are teaching this subject for the first time, moving up or down years or simply want to refresh your knowledge and rekindle your enthusiasm then this is the book for you.
A lifesaver, 13 Apr 2008
This book is a must for trainee teachers lacking confidence with their maths knowledge and teaching. The author empathises with the trepidation of maths, and offers clear and simple explanations. The chapters are clearly divided for when you need that quick knowledge top-up when lesson planning, and the self-test questions are a great confidence boost! The book also offers techniques that complement the new NNS teaching strategies (e.g. partitioning, multiplication grids etc).
Superb!, 24 Nov 2006
After teaching primary maths for 14 years, and being the KS2 maths subject leader for 13 of those, I have no hesitation in rating this easily the best book I have ever read on the subject. Forget all those expensive courses, and trying to negotiate the endless tweaking of the NNS, save money by using this book to deliver a series of INSETs. Unbeatable value!
Simply Fabulous!!, 04 Oct 2006
When I was told at the start of my teacher training course that I would need to buy this maths text book, I let out a big groan. I remembered all of those maths textbooks from when I was actually AT school and remembered how utterly boring they were. But since working through this book and completeing the end of chapter self-assessment questions, my confidence in maths has soared! A must have for teachers-to-be, especially those who are a bit shakey on their maths knowledge!
Good for parents!, 11 Sep 2006
I was lent this book by my son's teacher because I wanted a better understanding of what he was being taught in maths in order to help him at home. I really enjoyed reading it, revising things I'd forgetten and understanding the current approachs to teaching arithmetic in particular.
It has helped me to practice maths with my children and has also made me more personally appreciative and confident in the subject.
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.
Great book!, 17 Nov 2008
I found this really helpful towards the new PTLLS teaching qualification, as well as giving me all the basic teaching tools I needed to start my career. A comprehensive index enabled me to locate all aspects I needed quickly. It's written in an easy to read format, with useful examples, great lists, and realistic activities which are relevant to teaching. I will keep it as a reference book as I progress through the teaching qualifications.
Great book to go with the course, 31 Jul 2008
Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector
At Joan Patterson Associates we use this as the course text for our 5 day PTLLS course. A wide range of students working in a variety of settings have said what a great introduction to post 16 teaching this book provides. Students find the book a great help when completing their assignments and reference to it for the level 4.
A great book pitched at the right level for the PTLLS course.
Noel Patterson www.joanpattersonassociates.com
C&G7303, 24 Jul 2008
An excellent book to accompany the course, it mirrors the syllabus and supports it with clear, detailed information and useful web sites. Everyone enrolling should be issued with one as part of the course !
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Customer Reviews
A useful study resource on theorists and their influence, 25 Oct 2008
A clear and well set out book detailing approximately 20 theorists who have had influences in the way we approach early years education.
I would normally dip in and out of text books but this one I was happy to read as it's set out in such a undemanding and informative way.
The book is set out with headings about each theorist's;
- Life and upbringing
- Books and writing
- Their theory
- How those theories have been put into practise and their influence
The author also critiques the theories and provides web sites and books to find out more about each one.
Whilst it's definitely a useful book and one I've found interesting, I had hoped to find some information on Maslow, Rogers or Kelly so was slightly disappointed they weren't mentioned.
Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning
essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.
Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years
excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!
A must have book, 30 Aug 2007
I love it! The children in my class love it!
It is full of literacy starters and games to get children thinking. It fits really well with the Ros Wilson 2020 / Big Writing and the Literacy Hour.
I wouldn't be without it.
A must for any teacher!, 23 Jun 2007
I have Jumpstart for over 3 years now and it has been invaluable in my Literacy planning. The games are split into sections, some are quick, others need more time - but all of the games are wonderful. My class has several firm favourites, and I have been particularly happy with the spelling games, of which many are now being played at the children's home whilst learning their spellings for the week. Jumpstart games can be applied to any year group and I would recommend it to any Teacher.
A good starting point, 03 Apr 2007
I've used a few of the activities in this book 'as they stand' and they have worked very well with my Y7-Y8 classes who are about Level 2 - Level 4.
I don't feel it is something you could refer to as an emergency 10 minutes before the lesson starts. I have to either incorporate the activities into schemes of work or refer to it the night before/morning.
Covers all range of literacy activities and is an excellent resource in that respect.
Handy for the classroom, 28 Nov 2006
This has been a great classroom tool. It is easy read and has some great ideas. Some of them you may have already thought of, but on those rainy days when your brain just isn't working, it's great to be able to flip through the pages and find an inspiring starter. Or, in some cases the inspiration for a greta lessons; there are some lovely writing workshop ideas included. Great for 7-14's. A must have for every teachers tool box.
Thoroughly Useful!, 22 Feb 2005
Suitable for upper KS2 and secondary level, this is a great collection of literacy starters and warm-up activites. Many of the activities and games could be adapted for KS1 and lower junior. Corbett covers virtually every aspect of sentence structure and language use in this gem. He is an inspiring writer and his ideas have really livened up the start of literacy lessons in my year 5 class.
Highly recommended!
alphabet, 18 May 2008
This is the book to buy on teaching this subject. It is clearly written, beautifully laid out and provides self assessment exercises to work through in order to clarify what has just been read. There are more provided on the cd rom at the back of the book too. If you are teaching this subject for the first time, moving up or down years or simply want to refresh your knowledge and rekindle your enthusiasm then this is the book for you.
A lifesaver, 13 Apr 2008
This book is a must for trainee teachers lacking confidence with their maths knowledge and teaching. The author empathises with the trepidation of maths, and offers clear and simple explanations. The chapters are clearly divided for when you need that quick knowledge top-up when lesson planning, and the self-test questions are a great confidence boost! The book also offers techniques that complement the new NNS teaching strategies (e.g. partitioning, multiplication grids etc).
Superb!, 24 Nov 2006
After teaching primary maths for 14 years, and being the KS2 maths subject leader for 13 of those, I have no hesitation in rating this easily the best book I have ever read on the subject. Forget all those expensive courses, and trying to negotiate the endless tweaking of the NNS, save money by using this book to deliver a series of INSETs. Unbeatable value!
Simply Fabulous!!, 04 Oct 2006
When I was told at the start of my teacher training course that I would need to buy this maths text book, I let out a big groan. I remembered all of those maths textbooks from when I was actually AT school and remembered how utterly boring they were. But since working through this book and completeing the end of chapter self-assessment questions, my confidence in maths has soared! A must have for teachers-to-be, especially those who are a bit shakey on their maths knowledge!
Good for parents!, 11 Sep 2006
I was lent this book by my son's teacher because I wanted a better understanding of what he was being taught in maths in order to help him at home. I really enjoyed reading it, revising things I'd forgetten and understanding the current approachs to teaching arithmetic in particular.
It has helped me to practice maths with my children and has also made me more personally appreciative and confident in the subject.
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.
Great book!, 17 Nov 2008
I found this really helpful towards the new PTLLS teaching qualification, as well as giving me all the basic teaching tools I needed to start my career. A comprehensive index enabled me to locate all aspects I needed quickly. It's written in an easy to read format, with useful examples, great lists, and realistic activities which are relevant to teaching. I will keep it as a reference book as I progress through the teaching qualifications.
Great book to go with the course, 31 Jul 2008
Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector
At Joan Patterson Associates we use this as the course text for our 5 day PTLLS course. A wide range of students working in a variety of settings have said what a great introduction to post 16 teaching this book provides. Students find the book a great help when completing their assignments and reference to it for the level 4.
A great book pitched at the right level for the PTLLS course.
Noel Patterson www.joanpattersonassociates.com
C&G7303, 24 Jul 2008
An excellent book to accompany the course, it mirrors the syllabus and supports it with clear, detailed information and useful web sites. Everyone enrolling should be issued with one as part of the course !
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.
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Customer Reviews
A useful study resource on theorists and their influence, 25 Oct 2008
A clear and well set out book detailing approximately 20 theorists who have had influences in the way we approach early years education.
I would normally dip in and out of text books but this one I was happy to read as it's set out in such a undemanding and informative way.
The book is set out with headings about each theorist's;
- Life and upbringing
- Books and writing
- Their theory
- How those theories have been put into practise and their influence
The author also critiques the theories and provides web sites and books to find out more about each one.
Whilst it's definitely a useful book and one I've found interesting, I had hoped to find some information on Maslow, Rogers or Kelly so was slightly disappointed they weren't mentioned.
Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning
essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.
Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years
excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!
A must have book, 30 Aug 2007
I love it! The children in my class love it!
It is full of literacy starters and games to get children thinking. It fits really well with the Ros Wilson 2020 / Big Writing and the Literacy Hour.
I wouldn't be without it.
A must for any teacher!, 23 Jun 2007
I have Jumpstart for over 3 years now and it has been invaluable in my Literacy planning. The games are split into sections, some are quick, others need more time - but all of the games are wonderful. My class has several firm favourites, and I have been particularly happy with the spelling games, of which many are now being played at the children's home whilst learning their spellings for the week. Jumpstart games can be applied to any year group and I would recommend it to any Teacher.
A good starting point, 03 Apr 2007
I've used a few of the activities in this book 'as they stand' and they have worked very well with my Y7-Y8 classes who are about Level 2 - Level 4.
I don't feel it is something you could refer to as an emergency 10 minutes before the lesson starts. I have to either incorporate the activities into schemes of work or refer to it the night before/morning.
Covers all range of literacy activities and is an excellent resource in that respect.
Handy for the classroom, 28 Nov 2006
This has been a great classroom tool. It is easy read and has some great ideas. Some of them you may have already thought of, but on those rainy days when your brain just isn't working, it's great to be able to flip through the pages and find an inspiring starter. Or, in some cases the inspiration for a greta lessons; there are some lovely writing workshop ideas included. Great for 7-14's. A must have for every teachers tool box.
Thoroughly Useful!, 22 Feb 2005
Suitable for upper KS2 and secondary level, this is a great collection of literacy starters and warm-up activites. Many of the activities and games could be adapted for KS1 and lower junior. Corbett covers virtually every aspect of sentence structure and language use in this gem. He is an inspiring writer and his ideas have really livened up the start of literacy lessons in my year 5 class.
Highly recommended!
alphabet, 18 May 2008
This is the book to buy on teaching this subject. It is clearly written, beautifully laid out and provides self assessment exercises to work through in order to clarify what has just been read. There are more provided on the cd rom at the back of the book too. If you are teaching this subject for the first time, moving up or down years or simply want to refresh your knowledge and rekindle your enthusiasm then this is the book for you.
A lifesaver, 13 Apr 2008
This book is a must for trainee teachers lacking confidence with their maths knowledge and teaching. The author empathises with the trepidation of maths, and offers clear and simple explanations. The chapters are clearly divided for when you need that quick knowledge top-up when lesson planning, and the self-test questions are a great confidence boost! The book also offers techniques that complement the new NNS teaching strategies (e.g. partitioning, multiplication grids etc).
Superb!, 24 Nov 2006
After teaching primary maths for 14 years, and being the KS2 maths subject leader for 13 of those, I have no hesitation in rating this easily the best book I have ever read on the subject. Forget all those expensive courses, and trying to negotiate the endless tweaking of the NNS, save money by using this book to deliver a series of INSETs. Unbeatable value!
Simply Fabulous!!, 04 Oct 2006
When I was told at the start of my teacher training course that I would need to buy this maths text book, I let out a big groan. I remembered all of those maths textbooks from when I was actually AT school and remembered how utterly boring they were. But since working through this book and completeing the end of chapter self-assessment questions, my confidence in maths has soared! A must have for teachers-to-be, especially those who are a bit shakey on their maths knowledge!
Good for parents!, 11 Sep 2006
I was lent this book by my son's teacher because I wanted a better understanding of what he was being taught in maths in order to help him at home. I really enjoyed reading it, revising things I'd forgetten and understanding the current approachs to teaching arithmetic in particular.
It has helped me to practice maths with my children and has also made me more personally appreciative and confident in the subject.
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.
Great book!, 17 Nov 2008
I found this really helpful towards the new PTLLS teaching qualification, as well as giving me all the basic teaching tools I needed to start my career. A comprehensive index enabled me to locate all aspects I needed quickly. It's written in an easy to read format, with useful examples, great lists, and realistic activities which are relevant to teaching. I will keep it as a reference book as I progress through the teaching qualifications.
Great book to go with the course, 31 Jul 2008
Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector
At Joan Patterson Associates we use this as the course text for our 5 day PTLLS course. A wide range of students working in a variety of settings have said what a great introduction to post 16 teaching this book provides. Students find the book a great help when completing their assignments and reference to it for the level 4.
A great book pitched at the right level for the PTLLS course.
Noel Patterson www.joanpattersonassociates.com
C&G7303, 24 Jul 2008
An excellent book to accompany the course, it mirrors the syllabus and supports it with clear, detailed information and useful web sites. Everyone enrolling should be issued with one as part of the course !
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 Method the Works, 20 Oct 2008
I attended a training session for this programme through my local Dyslexia Action Group and was so impressed I bought the book immediately. You do not need the training session - this manual takes the parent/teacher through the programme in tiny manageable steps (hence the title). It really works and is aimed at any age pupil. The results are amazing and FAST.
I would recommend it to anyone!
Easy to use!, 07 Oct 2008
Toe by Toe: Highly Structured Multi-Sensory Reading Manual for Teachers and Parents
15 to 20 minutes a day, 5 or more days a week is the commitment you need to make, but it is well worth it. My daughter was struggling at the age of nine (with a reading age of seven) and in the bottom reading group at school. Two years later she is in the top reading group (is ahead of her chronological reading age) and has gained confidence.
I would recommend that you have some sort of rewards/incentives agreed with your child and that you follow the (very clear) instructions precisely.
Not for everyone but a good start, 29 Sep 2008
I have found this book a useful tool on this road but it is not the definative answer to anything. It may help with some reading skills but my daughter has been doing this in school and home for a long time and I cannot claim it is doing any good. I was warned by a dyslexia expert that it would be a useful tool but that it does not work for everyone but neither would it do any harm. Dyslexia is not about reading and writing but this book is a useful tool to help eleviate some symptons.
Still the best!, 07 Sep 2008
There hasn't been a review for a few years so I thought I'd emphasise that, despite the prevelance of new ways of helping dyslexics (cd roms, games etc) and, although these methods may have their benefits, nothing beats good old slog with Toe by Toe.
This book looks so offputting when you first open it - column after column of minutely differentiated words and acres of tick boxes BUT.... it works! Why?
Because dyslexic people NEED drip feeding day by day, little by little, rule by rule, until it gradually begins to make sense. Those of us lucky enough to just 'get' the rules of English don't realise what a fiendish language it can be. It's like if you find it hard to lose weight - the answer's easy but you have to keep doing it every day.
And despite my fears, both my kids actually enjoy using it. In fact the lack of bells and whistles helps concentrate their minds, and all those little ticks give them a daily sense of achievement.
Excellent results, 29 Jul 2008
We have used this with our seven year old daughter for a period of seven months. She has gone from bottom of the class to top third in that time. The results have been fantastic. She has changed from a shy 'hates reading' child to someone who cannot get enough to read. I cannot recommend this highly enough. It instructs you to follow the directions to the letter, which we did - spending perhaps 15-20 minutes a day with the book.
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Customer Reviews
A useful study resource on theorists and their influence, 25 Oct 2008
A clear and well set out book detailing approximately 20 theorists who have had influences in the way we approach early years education.
I would normally dip in and out of text books but this one I was happy to read as it's set out in such a undemanding and informative way.
The book is set out with headings about each theorist's;
- Life and upbringing
- Books and writing
- Their theory
- How those theories have been put into practise and their influence
The author also critiques the theories and provides web sites and books to find out more about each one.
Whilst it's definitely a useful book and one I've found interesting, I had hoped to find some information on Maslow, Rogers or Kelly so was slightly disappointed they weren't mentioned.
Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning
essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.
Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years
excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!
A must have book, 30 Aug 2007
I love it! The children in my class love it!
It is full of literacy starters and games to get children thinking. It fits really well with the Ros Wilson 2020 / Big Writing and the Literacy Hour.
I wouldn't be without it.
A must for any teacher!, 23 Jun 2007
I have Jumpstart for over 3 years now and it has been invaluable in my Literacy planning. The games are split into sections, some are quick, others need more time - but all of the games are wonderful. My class has several firm favourites, and I have been particularly happy with the spelling games, of which many are now being played at the children's home whilst learning their spellings for the week. Jumpstart games can be applied to any year group and I would recommend it to any Teacher.
A good starting point, 03 Apr 2007
I've used a few of the activities in this book 'as they stand' and they have worked very well with my Y7-Y8 classes who are about Level 2 - Level 4.
I don't feel it is something you could refer to as an emergency 10 minutes before the lesson starts. I have to either incorporate the activities into schemes of work or refer to it the night before/morning.
Covers all range of literacy activities and is an excellent resource in that respect.
Handy for the classroom, 28 Nov 2006
This has been a great classroom tool. It is easy read and has some great ideas. Some of them you may have already thought of, but on those rainy days when your brain just isn't working, it's great to be able to flip through the pages and find an inspiring starter. Or, in some cases the inspiration for a greta lessons; there are some lovely writing workshop ideas included. Great for 7-14's. A must have for every teachers tool box.
Thoroughly Useful!, 22 Feb 2005
Suitable for upper KS2 and secondary level, this is a great collection of literacy starters and warm-up activites. Many of the activities and games could be adapted for KS1 and lower junior. Corbett covers virtually every aspect of sentence structure and language use in this gem. He is an inspiring writer and his ideas have really livened up the start of literacy lessons in my year 5 class.
Highly recommended!
alphabet, 18 May 2008
This is the book to buy on teaching this subject. It is clearly written, beautifully laid out and provides self assessment exercises to work through in order to clarify what has just been read. There are more provided on the cd rom at the back of the book too. If you are teaching this subject for the first time, moving up or down years or simply want to refresh your knowledge and rekindle your enthusiasm then this is the book for you.
A lifesaver, 13 Apr 2008
This book is a must for trainee teachers lacking confidence with their maths knowledge and teaching. The author empathises with the trepidation of maths, and offers clear and simple explanations. The chapters are clearly divided for when you need that quick knowledge top-up when lesson planning, and the self-test questions are a great confidence boost! The book also offers techniques that complement the new NNS teaching strategies (e.g. partitioning, multiplication grids etc).
Superb!, 24 Nov 2006
After teaching primary maths for 14 years, and being the KS2 maths subject leader for 13 of those, I have no hesitation in rating this easily the best book I have ever read on the subject. Forget all those expensive courses, and trying to negotiate the endless tweaking of the NNS, save money by using this book to deliver a series of INSETs. Unbeatable value!
Simply Fabulous!!, 04 Oct 2006
When I was told at the start of my teacher training course that I would need to buy this maths text book, I let out a big groan. I remembered all of those maths textbooks from when I was actually AT school and remembered how utterly boring they were. But since working through this book and completeing the end of chapter self-assessment questions, my confidence in maths has soared! A must have for teachers-to-be, especially those who are a bit shakey on their maths knowledge!
Good for parents!, 11 Sep 2006
I was lent this book by my son's teacher because I wanted a better understanding of what he was being taught in maths in order to help him at home. I really enjoyed reading it, revising things I'd forgetten and understanding the current approachs to teaching arithmetic in particular.
It has helped me to practice maths with my children and has also made me more personally appreciative and confident in the subject.
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.
Great book!, 17 Nov 2008
I found this really helpful towards the new PTLLS teaching qualification, as well as giving me all the basic teaching tools I needed to start my career. A comprehensive index enabled me to locate all aspects I needed quickly. It's written in an easy to read format, with useful examples, great lists, and realistic activities which are relevant to teaching. I will keep it as a reference book as I progress through the teaching qualifications.
Great book to go with the course, 31 Jul 2008
Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector
At Joan Patterson Associates we use this as the course text for our 5 day PTLLS course. A wide range of students working in a variety of settings have said what a great introduction to post 16 teaching this book provides. Students find the book a great help when completing their assignments and reference to it for the level 4.
A great book pitched at the right level for the PTLLS course.
Noel Patterson www.joanpattersonassociates.com
C&G7303, 24 Jul 2008
An excellent book to accompany the course, it mirrors the syllabus and supports it with clear, detailed information and useful web sites. Everyone enrolling should be issued with one as part of the course !
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 Method the Works, 20 Oct 2008
I attended a training session for this programme through my local Dyslexia Action Group and was so impressed I bought the book immediately. You do not need the training session - this manual takes the parent/teacher through the programme in tiny manageable steps (hence the title). It really works and is aimed at any age pupil. The results are amazing and FAST.
I would recommend it to anyone!
Easy to use!, 07 Oct 2008
Toe by Toe: Highly Structured Multi-Sensory Reading Manual for Teachers and Parents
15 to 20 minutes a day, 5 or more days a week is the commitment you need to make, but it is well worth it. My daughter was struggling at the age of nine (with a reading age of seven) and in the bottom reading group at school. Two years later she is in the top reading group (is ahead of her chronological reading age) and has gained confidence.
I would recommend that you have some sort of rewards/incentives agreed with your child and that you follow the (very clear) instructions precisely.
Not for everyone but a good start, 29 Sep 2008
I have found this book a useful tool on this road but it is not the definative answer to anything. It may help with some reading skills but my daughter has been doing this in school and home for a long time and I cannot claim it is doing any good. I was warned by a dyslexia expert that it would be a useful tool but that it does not work for everyone but neither would it do any harm. Dyslexia is not about reading and writing but this book is a useful tool to help eleviate some symptons.
Still the best!, 07 Sep 2008
There hasn't been a review for a few years so I thought I'd emphasise that, despite the prevelance of new ways of helping dyslexics (cd roms, games etc) and, although these methods may have their benefits, nothing beats good old slog with Toe by Toe.
This book looks so offputting when you first open it - column after column of minutely differentiated words and acres of tick boxes BUT.... it works! Why?
Because dyslexic people NEED drip feeding day by day, little by little, rule by rule, until it gradually begins to make sense. Those of us lucky enough to just 'get' the rules of English don't realise what a fiendish language it can be. It's like if you find it hard to lose weight - the answer's easy but you have to keep doing it every day.
And despite my fears, both my kids actually enjoy using it. In fact the lack of bells and whistles helps concentrate their minds, and all those little ticks give them a daily sense of achievement.
Excellent results, 29 Jul 2008
We have used this with our seven year old daughter for a period of seven months. She has gone from bottom of the class to top third in that time. The results have been fantastic. She has changed from a shy 'hates reading' child to someone who cannot get enough to read. I cannot recommend this highly enough. It instructs you to follow the directions to the letter, which we did - spending perhaps 15-20 minutes a day with the book.
Use with caution, 21 Sep 2007
It is a good book, but you need to watch the sections on learning styles. Read the LSDA reports before you base your ideas around any of the contentious stuff.
Excellent!, 03 May 2006
I bought this book as a trainee teacher and now as an NQT, I still use it for lesson ideas especially when trying to use kinaesthetic, visual and auditory activities. It has a host of activities which are then related back to individual subjects and so, doesn't focus as some other books do on the core subjects of English, Maths and Science. I teach French, and the book provided a lot of new ideas for my lessons that I'd never tried before. I don't know what I ever did before this book came along! Buy it!
An outstanding resource for all teachers, 27 Apr 2006
This is perhaps the best single volume teaching resource I have come across and I only wish it was available when I was an NQT. The book is clearly structured tackling diverse areas, such as educational theory, teaching activities and behavioural management ideas.
Perhaps the jewel the crown in this book are the fifty teaching activities which can be used in many different contexts. Not only are they activities presented in a clear and accessible format, it also allows for suggestions on how they can be applied in the classroom as well as alternative ways the activities can be structured.
I found the educational theory well-presented and gave food for thought as well as directions for additional reading. There were some useful behavioural management suggestions which would particularly be useful for NQT's.
A first-class resource which I would highly recommend. The only down side in buying this resource would be if you used it at school, many of your colleagues would want to borrow it and you may not see it again for weeks!!!
Some simple ideas wrapped up in spurious theory, 13 Jun 2005
The first 60 pages of this book claim to give a theoretical underpinning to the later material. Anyone instested in substantiated theoretical developments should be worried by the references to such things as "neuro-lingistic programming". A great deal is said about the brain but none of the pratical conclusions depend on this material in any way. It is claimed that "In the past" i.e. before Paul Ginnis "teaching tended to be a hit and miss affair". So much for all the good practice of the past and the insights of the great educators! The mind/brain problem we are told, in all seriousness, has now been solved by biology. This is nonsense on stilts. The later sections of the book give ideas for lessons and class control some of which are of value at the level of hints and tips. If only the author had presented them as such instead of wrapping them up in all that ridiculous "theory".
Absolutelly essential book for any shelf, 01 May 2004
As a trainee teacher I have found this completely vital for informing planning of so many lessons. It contains a wealth of ideas for every teaching and learning style with detailed explanations and justification for each teaching technique. Written and illustrated with passion and vigour, Ginnis conveys an infectious passion for teaching on every page which in itself is inspirational. By explaining the reasoning behind each teaching technique this book becomes a mine of useful tools and not just another book of random activities with no direction. Absolutely brilliant read.
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Customer Reviews
A useful study resource on theorists and their influence, 25 Oct 2008
A clear and well set out book detailing approximately 20 theorists who have had influences in the way we approach early years education.
I would normally dip in and out of text books but this one I was happy to read as it's set out in such a undemanding and informative way.
The book is set out with headings about each theorist's;
- Life and upbringing
- Books and writing
- Their theory
- How those theories have been put into practise and their influence
The author also critiques the theories and provides web sites and books to find out more about each one.
Whilst it's definitely a useful book and one I've found interesting, I had hoped to find some information on Maslow, Rogers or Kelly so was slightly disappointed they weren't mentioned.
Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning
essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.
Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years
excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!
A must have book, 30 Aug 2007
I love it! The children in my class love it!
It is full of literacy starters and games to get children thinking. It fits really well with the Ros Wilson 2020 / Big Writing and the Literacy Hour.
I wouldn't be without it.
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