Balfron Primary School
Balfron Primary School is in a rural area of Stirling, with around 225 pupils.
Ann Rubython, principal headteacher, discusses the whole-school programme
Several years ago, staff at Balfron Primary School addressed the issue of the problem solving programme at the school. After in-service training they devised a progressive programme based on six strategies. The first two strategies (‘Make a list’ and ‘Find a pattern’) are introduced at P1 and P2; in P3 and P4 these strategies are reinforced and two new strategies are introduced. In upper primary, all six strategies are used.
Problems are arranged in folders for early, middle and upper primary classes. Each teacher photocopies the index and highlights the problems covered and hands this sheet onto the next teacher.
Ann says that the benefits of the problem solving programme have been most noticeable in Personal and Social Development (PSD) because of the group and pair work involved. Staff are also seeing benefits in clear, logical thinking and in attitudes to tackling problems - pupils are very willing to have a go.
| Ann Rubython discusses the problem solving programme. | |
|---|---|
| Description | Ann Rubython describes the progressive programme with problem folders for early, middle and upper primary classes |
| Duration | 2 minutes 1 second |
| Windows version |  Windows Media video: Ann Rubython discusses the problem solving programme. |
| Mac version |  QuickTime movie: Ann Rubython discusses the problem solving programme. |
| Transcript | Ann Rubython discusses the problem solving programme |
Stages at Balfron Primary School
- P2/P3, Balfron Primary School
A lesson making flags with different colour combinations.
- P7, Balfron Primary School
P7 problem solving lesson.