Positive design

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Description

Advanced Skills D&T teacher Kelly Hall maintains discipline by rewarding good behaviour, but is put to the test by her boisterous new Year 9 class. John Bayley observes her first lesson of the year. Kelly devotes only ten seconds to the rules before launching into a double lesson on product analysis. From the start the class learns that participation is rewarded; every answer earns a smiley sticker and good answers gain lavish praise. The strategy works wonders as discussions provoke a sea of hands. John notes the fast pace; short and varied activities adhering to strict timings leave no time for boredom or misbehaviour. But Kelly is no pushover, and when sound levels rise the class is quickly pulled back into line without resorting to sanctions. The girls progress well and by the finish four pupils receive a special prize for their high-level answers. With the lesson over, John concludes that above all the key to Kelly's success is her well-researched and executed lesson plan.