This book focuses on the most common areas for improvement in teaching, learning and assessment that are regularly identified in lesson observations, including beginning and ending lessons, differentiation, assessment for learning, giving feedback and effective questioning. Many of the observations about these key topics are not fully understood by teachers, who remain unclear about what can they can do to improve. Specifically written for use within vocational contexts, Sharrock helps you to fully understand these common areas for improvement, unpicks what good and poor practice might look like, and provides practical activities and strategies for you to use and adapt in your teaching. It therefore addresses the strong government drive to improve standards and the need to help FE colleges and other post-16 providers achieve this aim.

FE and other post-16 tutors are increasingly being asked to embed and develop English and maths skills in their lessons, and the revised common inspection framework from Ofsted places an increased emphasis on this. You may lack confidence or the required background knowledge to do this, or be struggling to find ideas that will engage and motivate your learners. Specifically written for use within vocational contexts, this text provides you with a theoretical understanding of the issues involved, including barriers to learning and how to overcome these. In addition it offers a range of practical strategies and ideas to get you started and build confidence and competence in your students. Each activity is accompanied by detailed notes that highlight key learning points, the development of vocational skills and extension opportunities.