Transforming Classroom Practices: A Counterpoint to Common Teaching Advice

Teaching carries with it a wealth of age-old advice, much of which is passed down from generation to generation. However, as we adapt to new challenges and changing societal landscapes, some traditional methods may no longer serve our students effectively. In this article, we explore some common pieces of teaching advice that I disagree with, and why.

Challenging the Rigid Start

One of the most common pieces of advice I often hear is that every lesson must begin with displaying or citing the learning outcomes or objectives. While it is indeed crucial for students to know their objectives, reciting these same learning outcomes at the beginning of every lesson can become monotonous and redundant for both teachers and students.

Instead, here are some alternative and impactful ways to start your lessons:

The power of a powerful visual: Use an image, infographic, or a compelling chart to represent the topic of discussion. Opening with a quotation: Include a relevant quote that speaks to the lesson's topic. Finish with a preview: End the lesson by discussing the final task or assignment to give students a sense of what is to come. Engaging a current event: Discuss a recent news event or article relevant to the lesson's topic.

Phonics vs. Immediate Text Engagement

Another common piece of advice is that reading real books should come after children are thoroughly taught phonics. While phonics is crucial, forcing struggling readers to go back to basics after they have been turned off can be counterproductive. Many children face challenges with reading when they haven't had enough practice with phonics.

For instance, I have taught many 11-year-old readers who were completely incompetent and reluctant, yet they truly needed to backtrack to the basics. However, due to past negative experiences, they were well and truly turned off the subject and lacked confidence.

To tackle this issue, it's essential to ensure that phonics education is adequate and that students have a solid foundation before moving on to reading real books. This includes:

Systematic phonics instruction: Teach phonics in a structured and systematic way, ensuring that students master each sound before moving on. Hands-on practice: Provide ample opportunities for students to practice reading phonetic words and phrases in various contexts. Positive reinforcement: Encourage and praise students for their efforts and progress, helping to build their confidence. Early assessment: Identify and address reading difficulties early on, so students do not fall behind.

The Benefits of Traditional Classroom Engagement

Another piece of advice that I find limiting is the suggestion that teachers should focus on digital platforms like Facebook for teaching. While digital tools can be valuable, they might not always provide the structured and focused environment that traditional classroom settings can offer.

Consider the following points:

Structure and discipline: The traditional classroom provides a structured environment that helps students focus, engage in dialogue, and develop critical thinking skills. Physical presence: Teachers can observe and interact with students in a real-time setting, providing immediate feedback and support. Hand-on experience: Real-world tasks and projects help students develop practical skills and adapt to real-world situations. Social skills: Classroom settings allow students to develop social skills through interaction with peers and teachers.

While technology has its merits, it should be used as a complement to, not a replacement for, traditional teaching methods. It’s important to find a balanced approach that utilizes the strengths of both.

Conclusion

Teaching is an evolving practice, and it's essential to question and adapt traditional advice as needed. By incorporating diverse and impactful teaching strategies, ensuring phonics education is robust, and emphasizing the value of traditional classroom settings, we can better serve our students and foster a more engaged and effective learning environment.

Let us embrace the wisdom of timeless teaching methods, blended with modern insights, to create a more impactful and inclusive educational experience for all students.