• Pitch to the top and differentiate down: make sure the model both challenges your most able and supports underachievers.

• Make explicit reference to assessment standards. As you can see, the difference between a grade 6 and a grade 7 is...

• You always face the class

• Unveils your expert thought process

• You can compile a library of models!

The process of using a visualiser strips away the unnecessary bells and whistles of PowerPoint effects that may actually hinder learning. Instead, using a visualiser helps a teacher to emphasise the information that you want the students to focus on. Quite literally, you are removing the redundant information from the students' focus and replacing it with what’s important.

Worked examples

Worked examples are where novice students are given the step-by-step guidance needed to answer a question. This reduces cognitive overload as research has shown that, without it, students often focus all of their attention on solving the problem, which leaves little room in their working memory to store the actual steps they used.

Using a visualiser means that teachers are able to initially model the strategy needed to solve a problem. Also, as students may not understand this the first time, it allows teachers to model and present alternative strategies at short notice.

Flexibility and adaptability are two massive abilities that underpin an effective teacher. Pre-set PowerPoints are rigid by their very nature. Visualisers make it easier to make live adjustments but also pitch your lesson at the right level based on how the class respond.

1. Front load instruction with MoP

I will now model how to…. and as I do this, you will track and listen carefully, ready to answer questions I may ask you, in full sentences.

HFE: Expectations are not set at start

2. Maintain SLANT to avoid split attention

I don’t want you to miss anything I model now so stay in SLANT until I say go. You will get a chance to write soon.

HFE: Students allowed to ‘multitask’

3. Be Seen Looking as you teach

HFE: Teacher is not aware of the class as they model

4. Cold Call and Reinforce

What is the definition of hypophora….[thinking time] Ali?

Correct Chris, the definition of hypophora is asking a question immediately followed by the answer for effect.

[Reinforce] Ella, what is the definition of hypophora?

HFE: Thinking time is not given. Students switch off.

5. Brighten lines on cue

When I say go and not before, I want you to pick up your pens, copy my example down and complete the next paragraph by yourself in silence. Remember to hit the success criteria I went through. Ready? ...Go!

HFE: Transition between tasks is not clear

1. Front load instruction with MoP

2. Maintain SLANT to avoid split attention

3. Be Seen Looking as you teach

4. Cold Call and Reinforce

5. Brighten lines on cue

• 5 Reasons Why Visualisers Help Students Learn by Inner Drive