Learning discussions is a strategy to support better progress for underperforming groups in science. The approach gives pupils the opportunity through targeted work in small groups to:
- identify the areas they find difficult (particularly in basic science)
- provide explanations through probing questioning and by guiding pupils’ thinking, thereby accelerating and consolidating their learning.
Developing questioning and dialogue through learning discussions
Learning discussions provide an opportunity for you to support, challenge and engage pupils. Misconceptions can be challenged and addressed. Develop listening and thinking skills so as to improve pupil confidence and understanding.
How do I plan for a learning discussion?
Ideas for how teachers can use learning discussions as a way of developing dialogue and identifying what pupils find difficult about science.
How do you and your pupils know that they are learning?
Planning that is driven by objectives, outcomes and success criteria will encourage and support pupils to become independent learners. The learning discussion is an opportunity for you to identify pupils’ strengths and areas of weakness in science.
