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1.16 St Columba's High School, Dunfermline, Fife

Differentiation of History Course Materials S1 & S2
St Columba's High School

Timetable - Collaboration: History/LSS Departments

November 1999 - Initial discussion took place between the History Department and a member of the Learning Support Department as to the aims of the partnership.

January -June 2000 - An audit of existing S2 materials was undertaken. As an LSS specialist I was particularly interested in identifying areas where reading may have proved to be a barrier. Differentiation was undertaken including incorporating graphics to alleviate reading difficulties.

August 2000- June 2001 - The materials were introduced and I was able to trial them by co-operatively teaching an S2 class. I also incorporated the differentiated coursework into my teaching of a group of S2 pupils with learning difficulties. Having taught the revised units we were able then to monitor, review and evaluate. We introduced for the first time, group work.

August 2001 -June 2002 - Consultation took place during in-service days and it was agreed to extend the process to include the differentiating of the SI course. A similar approach was undertaken with time being allocated for development work. I also continued to co-operatively teach an SI class. One aspect which we concentrated on was a revision of assessments. Another element developed was the importance of introducing good study skills. An introductory Research Package was devised forming a homework unit. This would encourage more sophisticated research.

June 2002 -June 2003 - As a result of the success, we have now extended it further to incorporate S3/S4 SG Course. I will again work in the roles of consultant and co-operative teacher.