Subject Pedagogy Flashcards
6 cards from real PGCE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Subject Pedagogy flashcards as text
What is 'retrieval practice' and why should subject teachers build it into their lessons?
Answer: Actively recalling information from memory — it strengthens long-term retention and is one of the most well-evidenced learning strategies
Retrieval practice (the 'testing effect') involves recalling information from memory rather than reviewing it — this strengthens memory traces and improves long-term retention significantly.
What does 'subject-specific talk' involve and why is it important?
Answer: Using and requiring pupils to use accurate subject vocabulary in oral work, developing both subject knowledge and academic language
Subject-specific talk develops both conceptual understanding and academic language — requiring pupils to use correct terminology in discussion embeds vocabulary and deepens comprehension.
What is 'modelling' in subject teaching?
Answer: The teacher demonstrating the thought processes, skills, or steps involved in a task, making expert thinking visible to pupils
Modelling makes expert thinking visible — the teacher 'thinks aloud' while performing a task, exposing the cognitive steps that novice learners need to see and internalise.
What is 'deliberate practice' and how does it apply to skill development in subjects?
Answer: Highly focused practice of specific sub-skills at the edge of competence, with immediate feedback — more effective than general practice
Deliberate practice (Ericsson) involves working at the edge of current ability on specific weaknesses, with focused feedback — it is purposeful rather than merely repetitive.
What is the purpose of 'subject knowledge audits' for PGCE trainees?
Answer: To identify gaps in the trainee's subject knowledge that need addressing to teach effectively
Subject knowledge audits help trainees identify areas of weakness in their own subject knowledge — they can then prioritise CPD to strengthen subject understanding and pedagogical content knowledge.
What is 'assessment literacy' for a subject teacher?
Answer: Understanding how to design valid, reliable assessments that align with learning objectives and interpret results accurately
Assessment literacy involves understanding the principles of good assessment design — validity (does it assess what it intends to?) and reliability (are results consistent?) — and using assessment data effectively.