#@abowdenj

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Criss Crossing in the Classroom: Crossword Puzzles as a Strategy for Retrieval and Retention

Great new article via @abowdenj - Criss Crossing in the Classroom: Crossword Puzzles as a Strategy for Retrieval and Retention - Now also at

A crossword is a word puzzle that typically forms a grid of squares, which are filled with letters forming words or phrases. The person completing the crossword needs to solve clues in order to get the correct answers. The correct words and phrases are normally placed “across” the grid (left to right) and “down” the grid (top to bottom). However, I am sure crossword aficionados would point out…

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In Defence of Card Sorts: 6 ways they can aid learning

In Defence of Card Sorts: 6 ways they can aid learning - New #UKEdChat article by @abowdenj now at

Over the years I have heard countless colleagues criticise card sorts. Some of this is pedagogical, in that there are better ways to retrieve knowledge and check to understand, and some of this is practical, especially as making card sorts is so time-consuming.  Despite the above, I believe card sorts are an excellent way to recall core knowledge and further pupils’ understanding of taught…

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Using the generation effect as Retrieval Practice: some simple ideas for the classroom

New fantastic article by @abowdenj - Using the generation effect as Retrieval Practice: some simple ideas for the classroom - Now at

The generation effect is the idea that information will be better retained in the long-term memory if it is actively generated rather than simply read. Cognitive scientist Robert Bjork (n.d.) argues that tasks getting pupils to generate words rather than merely reading them have a longer-lasting and more robust impact on learning. For instance, learners are more likely to remember the word…

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Applying cutting edge pedagogy to remote learning by @abowdenj

NEW: Applying cutting edge pedagogy to remote learning by @abowdenj now also at

In September 2018 my colleague Martyn Essery (@MrEssery) and I launched something we called ‘The Reach Teach Toolkit,’ which was created to give teachers access to cutting edge teaching strategies centred on evidence-based research. Essentially, the Toolkit is based on five essential stages of learning, including retrieval practice, hooks (into learning), knowledge transmission, deliberate…

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Interleaving in Practice by @abowdenj

NEW: Interleaving in Practice by @abowdenj now at

I hated times tables when I was young. I struggled and tended to find the memorisation of them an utterly miserable experience. Three years ago, I went into a maths class as part of my ‘SLT on tour’ duty and the well meaning maths teacher asked me what 6 X 7 is. I gave the wrong answer. Then panicked, thought about it, and gave another wrong answer. Everyone seemed embarrassed. 

Therefore, I…

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