In recent years retrieval practice has continued to grow in prominence and interest, as it is an evidence informed effective teaching and learning strategy that supports all learners. After extensive reading, engaging with research and working with schools Kate Jones has written a book that explores how retrieval practice can work in a primary school context. The book begins with research then focuses on classroom application covering curriculum design, task and question design with retrieval practice and how to embed retrieval practice as part of the language of learning across the wider school community. This is an essential read for teachers and leaders at all levels looking to effectively embed retrieval practice in their primary classroom. Retrieval Primary is the latest in the Retrieval Practice series by Kate Jones.
Bring back the flashcards and the quizzes! The age of the internet saw a shift in focus in education from knowledge (remembering and understanding facts) to skills (researching, thinking, creating, communicating etc.). Repeated practice and any kind of rote learning was labelled 'drill and kill'. The pendulum is now swinging back the other way, with many experts advocating for a knowledge rich curriculum. Teachers are encouraged to identify the key information students need to learn and give them many opportunities to learn it (retrieval practice), so the knowledge is transferred to students' long term memories and builds a solid foundation for new knowledge and applying knowledge.
The book provides useful ideas for implementing retrieval practice in primary schools.