Posts by Elizabeth McLeod
Too sick too learn
It’s been described as a disease that disproportionately affects the poorest of the poor. That New Zealand has one of the highest rates of rheumatic fever in the developed world is shameful. But what’s being done about it, and the other health problems associated with poverty that are impacting on our children and classrooms? Elizabeth…
Read MoreThe terrible toll of transience on our schools and students
Last year, nearly half the 167 kids enrolled at Hamilton East School had left by the end of the year: not counting Year 6 leavers. If this wasn’t disruptive enough, 92 new students – none of them new entrants – joined the school throughout the year. Principal Pippa Wright says even after just a month…
Read MoreScience takes aim at "learning styles"
Key points Neuroscientists say “learning styles” in students are just another “neuromyth”. But good teachers do use them, and related techniques, as a lead-in to reflective and responsive practice. Take a look at the following statements about the brain. Which ones are true, which false? We only use 10 percent of our brain. There are…
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