Progression pedagogy - Grouping Living Things - Year 4

In a Year 4 science curriculum, the unit on 'Grouping Living Things' is designed to enhance students' understanding of biological classification. The pedagogical approach used throughout this unit is structured to help pupils retain and comprehend more information effectively. This is achieved by implementing a systematic method known as 'link it, learn it, check it, show it, and know it'. This method is part of a larger framework detailed in the 'Five stages of learning and remembering', which can be found on the Focus Learning Challenge website. The objective is to create a seamless progression of learning that not only educates but also embeds the knowledge deeply in the students' minds.

The progression within the 'Grouping Living Things' unit is carefully planned to ensure a clear learning journey. Before the learning begins, students are introduced to the topic, establishing a connection with their existing knowledge. During the learning phase, new information is presented and explored in depth. At the end of the learning session, students' understanding is assessed to ensure they have grasped the key concepts. After the learning, activities and assessments are designed to reinforce the information and ensure long-term retention. This structured approach, as outlined by Focus Education (UK) Ltd, is aimed at fostering a thorough and lasting understanding of how living things are grouped in the natural world.