Models and writing

In order to link writing more closely with practical activities, a teacher included writing materials within the construction area in her class. She explained their purpose to the class and gave them some examples of writing used to label models.

One very able pupil used a construction kit to make a model of an intricate spacecraft and, after prompting, wrote some labels, for example 'boostr rokt'. At the teacher's suggestion, he looked in a book about space travel to find out more about rockets and then wrote a sign 'This is a Saturn rocket by Michael', copying 'Saturn rocket' from the book. The model and writing were shared with the rest of the class.

The next day the teacher talked to the pupil about the purpose of instructions and showed him some models of how instructions are set out. She suggested he write some instructions so his friends would know how to make a rocket too. The pupil worked independently to list the equipment needed and, with support from a teaching assistant, drafted some sequenced instructions.

Planning notes

All children in the class had access to paper and writing implements to support their imaginative play.

The teacher supported the able child to find out more about rockets using the book.

Work was shared and discussed by the class.

Further challenge was provided for the able child by suggesting an appropriate follow-up activity that built on his interest.

The mix of independent work and support from the teacher and teaching assistant helped develop interest and confidence.

National Literacy and Numeracy Strategies' Guidance on teaching able children. (Print copy available from DfES, order reference: LNGT.)

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