Renowned history experts Christine Counsell, Ros Ashby, Tristram Hunt, Ben Walsh and Jonathan Howson discuss the issues of teaching history raised in a previous programme, Testing Hypotheses. First they discuss the general approach; how the pupils were encouraged to take the material seriously with high expectations. Passion, authority, and relevance, were seen as key teaching skills. Next, they look at critical thinking methodology: not over simplifying positions, disciplining the class with framing questions, engaging with the non-compulsory aspects of the curriculum and the importance of writing. Thirdly, they discuss the dilemmas facing teachers, their choices about what to omit, not under-challenging pupils, long term planning for differentiation and departing from plans. Finally they turn to learning, reflecting on the aspects of the lesson that impressed them; inclusion, critical understanding, working with rough sources and the intellectual rigour of the teacher.

Video Series: KS4 History
Release Date 2005