Work less. Learn more.
by Amy Ferguson
I recently revisited a book I hadn't read in a while - The Lazy Teacher's Handbook (linked below). Jim Smith illustrates beautifully the concept of teachers doing less so that our students can do more.
The thing I enjoy most about this book? It gives many practical examples which can be used in any classroom at any level.
Today, I had a lesson with my Higher Music class. Over the past few lessons, we have been revising our knowledge of key signatures and chords in Music. It's quite a heavy topic but can be applied to a range of different musical contexts. Today, I let the students teach the lesson.
Between them, the students presented key signautres and chords in a range of keys. The classroom was dynamic and the students actively supported each other in their delivery of each section of the lesson. I was astonished at how much the pupils had retained but, more importantly, how willing they were to seek support and clarification from their peers.
Not only did I do far less, the students learned far more and had great fun doing it. Whilst revising their music theory knowledge, students also spend time developing their Oracy skills - presenting, aswking and answering questions, challenging assumptions and building on each other's knowledge.
I cannot recommend this book enough. I will be giving some of the exercises a try in the coming weeks.
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