ABSTRACT

This book, by closely recording and reflecting upon the work and play of a group of 9 to 11 year-old children in a primary classroom, develops an approach to teaching and learning which is based upon the ways in which children are able to exercise a controlling influence over their own learning activity. It also suggests the sharing and analysis of classroom experience should be part of a teacher’s day-to-day life. The material for the book was gathered during a year of classroom enquiry in which the author combined the roles of teacher and researcher, working alongside the normal class teacher in a primary school. Samples of the children’s work are carefully described and analysed in an attempt to get behind the overt behaviour of the children and reveal the purposes, concerns and thinking that underlies their activity.

chapter 1|11 pages

Introduction

A Framework for Classroom Enquiry

chapter 2|25 pages

Relating to Children

chapter 3|20 pages

The Material Environment

chapter 4|34 pages

Abstract Thinking and Hypothesizing

chapter 5|24 pages

Representation

chapter 6|13 pages

Points of Growth

chapter 7|16 pages

Dramatic Quality in David's Writing

A Case Study

chapter 8|14 pages

Epilogue

Sharing Our Understanding