Dumfries and Galloway project: A novel approach to contextualised learning (P6/S1)

This project addresses the key areas of development, expectation, progression and continuity in literacy.

The project aimed to highlight that pupil motivation and engagement with learning increases when writing skills are taught in context and when pupils are given opportunities to link the different aspects of literacy. It also aimed to develop stronger links between the primary and secondary sector, encouraging a common understanding of literacy terminology and creating opportunities for shared methodology.

The project involved Douglas Ewart High School and Minigaff Primary with three teachers from the secondary and two from the primary. For the purpose of the project it was decided that each sector would use the novel 'The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips' by Michael Morpurgo as a stimulus for non-fiction writing.

Teachers involved met to discuss lesson planning, consider literacy terminology, decide upon suitable non-fiction writing tasks and share teaching approaches. Opportunities to observe the different literacy lessons from each teaching sector were also built in. Collaborative teaching between the primary and secondary sector also took place.