Middle College Students - A Focus on Learning

At this week’s Middle College Assembly, the benefits of a strong learning focus were outlined, with an emphasis placed on three approaches students can incorporate into their learning cycle:

1.        Understanding Goals

Teachers at PLC design Understanding Goals to support students develop a deeper understanding of each subject. This can help Middle College students to better retain information and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Understanding Goals encourage a focus on the key aspects of a topic and promote meaningful learning; as students engage more deeply with the subject matter, they become more confident and motivated to learn.  Understanding Goals also support students to transfer their knowledge to new situations and contexts so they can apply their learning to real-life situations.

Understanding Goals for each subject are visible in the classrooms and on Nav unit pages for each subject.

2.        Four Pillars of Learning

The pursuit of personal excellence is promoted and valued by the Pacific community. Reports provide important guidance about areas of strength and skills to focus on so that students develop as learners through their education.  Reflection on progress against the Learning to Learn and Learning Together criteria is a valuable routine in the academic cycle for Middle College students, helping them to become better learners and preparing them for success beyond Middle College

The Learning to Learn and Learning Together criteria can be found on Middle College students’ Term One Academic Reports, with more detail about these skills provided on the inside cover page.

3.        Intellectual Standards

The Intellectual Standards provide a strong foundation for critical thinking, clear communication and creative problem-solving. By applying the standards of clarity, accuracy, precision, relevance, depth, breadth, logic, significance and fairness, Middle College students develop the skills to express their ideas clearly and concisely across all subject areas. These universal standards help learners to understand and respond to complex concepts and arguments. Applying the Intellectual Standards in the classroom, and during the drafting process, can help prepare students to succeed in rigorous academic contexts in and beyond school as lifelong learners.

The Intellectual Standards can be found in classrooms, and on Middle College student and parent NAV pages under the Learning and Assessment tile.

Middle College learning represents the foundations for developing students’ academic approach and interdisciplinary skills. The provision of essential tools and clear signposts help them to take initiative, develop self-discipline and ultimately achieve their goals under the guidance of their teachers and parents working in co-agency. If you would like further information about where to find any of these resources please contact your child’s teachers or contact me directly.

Mrs Jo Belchamber, Head of Learning Middle College