One of the early successes of our Lesson Study has been the use of ‘pre learning’ sessions with key pupils. This simple idea came from one of our vice principals @glynnlee who suggested rather than supporting key pupils to catch up with learning after the lesson, they are given a pre lesson session that introduces them to the key concept about to be taught. This short session enables staff to look at resources and strategies that will help them access the learning in class and ultimately give them a greater chance to succeed with their peers.
These sessions have been delivered by teaching assistants who work closely with the class teacher and go through their planning to ensure a common approach is adopted that benefits key individuals who might normally struggle in the lesson. Interviews with pupils post research lesson have revealed just how powerful this technique can be. One Y4 pupil commented that he had just had his best lesson in school ever! He was able to access the learning and contribute more fully to the lesson due to a sharp, focussed pre lesson session that prepared him for the learning ahead.
Smichael920's Blog 
February 1st, 2015 at 1:16 pm
Reblogged this on splozza11 and commented:
Am familiar with pre tutoring and totally agree… it can be very powerful at helping pupils to access lessons fully.
February 7th, 2015 at 12:42 pm
[…] Pre Lesson Learning also by Michael Shepherd Another from Michael about ‘flipping’ the support offered to pupils. Really interesting idea, and I suspect something that will be effective not just in terms of learning, but also in terms of self esteem. […]