Here’s how the whole class can cover the word processing skills required by the national curriculum at key stage 1 in a day. You will also keep your computer in constant use, with maximum contact time for the whole class. Type in a question, usually topic related (such as, What would you like to ask Neil Armstrong? What is the best thing about the school?). Give each child the chance to type a reply. This gets them into the habit of composing, correcting and editing, using the keyboard.
Sandra Woodman Tyning Hengrove School, Bristol
To extend topic and project work for infants, and give them the opportunity to develop personal and social skills while gaining a very basic understanding of business, economic and environmental education, we have turned the interiors of two large cloakrooms into themed role play areas. The space created, called Barlow Landscape Gardening Centre and Sam’s DIY, were initially developed by our nursery nurse to link in with topic work and environmentaltechnology projects. To initiate role play the children were taken on a visit to our local Do It All shop to learn the ropes. Within these areas, which are changed each term to link with whatever topic we are working on, the children role play co-operatively and collaboratively at all times. It is also an excellent utilisation of space with coats and bags accommodated around the outside of the cloakroom.
Marie Sparrow Science Co-ordinator, Samuel Barlow Primary and Nursery School, Nottinghamshire
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