LoveReading4Kids Says
This book has a somewhat daunting title, but as it was aimed at ALL primary and secondary teachers and parents who want to understand more about memory and how to improve students’ knowledge retention, I felt it was a book to read.
It is very cleverly written as it is almost written on two levels. The first being you can look for areas to read that you are familiar with, using the diagrams, pictures and ideas to further your knowledge, or you can read more deeply, checking out the references, and the brain theories behind the various tasks.
There is a fascinating chapter on how ones understanding of the brain has developed throughout history. There are also many thought provoking questions and suggestions to apply to your lesson planning.
It is written in such a way that although it is very technical, it remains inclusive, and the layout of the chapters are both clear and manageable. The book is aware of the busy lives of teachers and has opted for a realistic approach.
There is a clear explanation of short term, long term and working memory and how as teachers we can maximise a child’s learning by our understanding and approach.
Each chapter is clearly laid out with an:-
• Explainer – what you need to know
• Practical idea – putting theory into practice
• Worked example -clear examples to use in class
• Template – how to plan and implement the task.
This is combined with practical aids to help with recall and retrieval and ‘toolkit tips’ for a brief synopsis on each topic covered. There are also QR codes for downloading digital copies of templates. To be honest, everything has been covered and you can take as much or little information from the book as you wish, making this both a practical and useful addition to the staffroom bookcase.
Reviewed by Rosie WatchRosie Watch has taken her childhood passion for literature from classrooms in Cusco to Chelsea.
More reviews by Rosie Watch About The Teacher Toolkit Guide to Memory
Teacher Toolkit Guides transform the theory of education into practical ideas for your classroom. From Ross Morrison McGill, bestselling author of Mark. Plan. Teach. 2.0, this book unpicks the research behind how learners retain and recall information. It provides evidence-based strategies for improving memory in the classroom.
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The Teacher Toolkit Guide to Memory Synopsis
Teacher Toolkit Guides transform the theory of education into practical ideas for your classroom. From Ross Morrison McGill, bestselling author of Mark. Plan. Teach. 2.0, this book unpicks the research behind how learners retain and recall information. It provides evidence-based strategies for improving memory in the classroom.
Cleverly designed with infographics, charts and diagrams, The Teacher Toolkit Guide to Memory provides clear, visual explanations of how memory works, including short-term and long-term memory, working memory, semantic memory and episodic memory. Ross presents a wealth of original ideas for incorporating this theory into day-to-day classroom practice, with proven methods for aiding knowledge retention and testing recall, to boost learning, support revision and motivate pupils. Breaking down the key theories of cognitive load, cognitive apprenticeship and brain plasticity in an easy-to-digest format, this is the perfect guide for teachers looking to understand how to improve memory and how they can maximise their impact in the classroom.
Each book in the Teacher Toolkit Guides series explores a key principle of teaching and learning, and offers research-based techniques to transform classroom practice. Every book includes a bespoke version of Ross's renowned Five Minute Lesson Plan, as well as ready-to-use templates and worked examples. Supported by infographics, charts and diagrams, these guides are a must-have for any teacher, in any school, and at any level.
The Teacher Toolkit Guide to Memory is available to buy at Bloomsbury Publishing for £11.69 with a website saving of 10%.
About This Edition
Ross Morrison McGill Press Reviews
'We are constrained by our memory skills, especially for students sitting in a class bombarded by facts pressured by an upcoming test, struggling to find relations between ideas and building coat hangers to remember the details, and surrounded by others who seem to find it easy to recall what the teacher said. This book is Masterful, Evidence-based, Memorable, Operational, Readable, and the best book for You on memory.' - Professor John Hattie, Melbourne Graduate School of Education
'An exceptional effort of presenting the vast and difficult topic of 'the learning brain' in a practical and understandable way.' - Yves Moerskofski, Educational psychologist
'This book is informative and accessible for quick reads. The consistent approach to each chapter works really well, especially for utilising the practical applications. The embedded use of diagrams adds to the reader's understanding of some complex concepts.' - Charlotte McLean, SENCO and Senior Leader
'An impressive collection of findings that draws on the latest research within cognitive science and education. Ross succinctly discusses, clarifies and offers practical, research-informed examples for busy leaders and teachers.' - Mark Leswell, Research lead
'The 'human teacher first' meets the science. A clear and practical guide to 'debunking' teaching practices, with excellent use of analogies and ideas to support teacher development.' - Samantha Torr, Vice Principal: Director of Alpha Teaching School Hub, @alpha_tsh
'This brilliant book is concise and informative with visual explanations and summaries for quick reference, plus useful examples and templates. It outlines the complex connection between cognition, memory and emotion in learning.' - Sarah Hopp, Head of additional learning support and inclusion, @sarahhopp143
'A fantastic book that successfully interweaves the breadth of cognitive theory and practical strategies in a clear and accessible way. A great book to begin understanding the science of learning and the complexity of influences on this.' - Sarah Benskin, Assistant Principal (T & L, Curriculum and CPD), Nottingham @drblearning
'Being research-informed is one thing; having time to do it is another. Solve both issues by reading and acting upon this excellent introductory guide to the theory and practice of memory. Highly recommended.' - Dr Paul S. Ganderton, Education consultant, @ecogeog
'Ross McGill has managed to beautifully execute and simply explain the fundamentals of cognitive learning and the importance of understanding the how in the context of the brain, complete with wonderful illustrations perfect for the classroom teacher, learner and parent. So no matter who you are, no matter how successful, no matter how much you already may understand about this topic, Ross has something to offer you.' - Victoria dos Santos, Assistant athletic director and pastoral lead
'This book covers all the key points in understanding how human memory forms and functions according to models of memory and neuroscience through a historical and contemporary approach that can enable educators to adapt their teaching in light of evidence. Some key points have been made about emotion and stress, which affect learning and memory, and being aware of these can facilitate effective teaching methods in the current climate - as it requires students to become active learners and be able to actively retrieve memories. This is crucial for today's heavy content-based exams and curriculum.' - Shafina Vohra, Psychology teacher, @ShafinaVohra
'A guide to memory highlights the importance of understanding how our students learn. The worked examples and the templates will help teachers bring these ideas into the classrooms of all settings!' - Ryan Curran, Vice principal Delta Independent School
'The book is excellent and gripping and thoroughly fascinating. The theory sections are very well written and work well as a quick read as well as being very well suited to a slower careful read. The practical sections are remarkably clear and helpful. I defy anyone to read this and not be forced to stop and reflect, and as a result their lessons can't fail to be improved. This is the first book I've read for a long time that has really grabbed me and forced me to reflect and to be challenged. I cannot recommend it strongly enough.' - Peter Hall, Assistant Headteacher, @maths_ast
