Argyll and Bute (Islay) project

The aim of our project was to improve the Individual Talk skills of pupils. With the S4 class we intended to do this through increased awareness of Individual Talk success criteria via discussion and study guides. In S1 we wanted to see whether pupil creation  of Powerpoint presentations would result in any improvement of their Individual Talk experience. With both groups we also wanted to explore what impact digital video recording of Talk would have on self/peer assessment.

We felt that our focus on Individual Talk could be justified in terms of the “Curriculum for Excellence” review. In particular, we hoped that we could help pupils be successful learners by increasing their enthusiasm and motivation and that they would be using technology for learning. We also felt that we could help develop their respect for others and help them to be more confident individuals able to relate well with others. We were sure that we would be helping them to improve their communication skills.

We are a small school and two of the three English teachers were involved in the project so it should be clear that the two will continue to use what they have learned with other English classes. And our other colleague is keen to use what we have learned too.

We have introduced the same methodology with other classes, in particular the use of video and peer assessment which we have found invaluable. The use of Powerpoint presentation to facilitate Individual Talk is spreading like wildfire! It is now being used in Social Education and Citizenship classes. Individuals and groups are giving presentations at School assemblies.