Progression pedagogy - Digestive system - Year 4

In the Year 4 curriculum, the unit on the digestive system is structured to enhance pupils' understanding and retention of knowledge through a strategic pedagogical approach. This approach is encapsulated in the 'link it, learn it, check it, show it, and know it' system, which is designed to guide students through the learning process in stages. The aim is to maximise the opportunities for pupils to not only acquire knowledge but also to remember it more effectively. As part of this progression, the unit begins by establishing a connection with the children's prior knowledge and experiences before introducing new concepts.

During the learning phase, students are engaged with the key question, "What happens to the food we eat?" which sets the context for exploring the digestive system. The teaching sequence then unfolds through interactive and reflective stages. At the end of the learning, students are assessed to check their understanding of the topic. The final phase, 'after the learning', focuses on reinforcing and securing the knowledge gained, ensuring it is deeply embedded. This structured progression, as outlined by Focus Education (UK) Ltd, is further detailed in the 'Five stages of learning and remembering' document available on their website, which serves as a resource for educators to facilitate effective learning outcomes.