The Ingredients of Challenge

Teachers are ' rightly ' exhorted to challenge children so as to help them maximize their abilities, broaden their horizons and increase their achievement. But what exactly are challenging activities? And how can teachers be sure they embed challenge in everyday school life? If teachers understand the principles of challenge they can improve practice and enable parents to support their children effectively. This book examines the notion of challenge and breaks down its different elements to determine practical ideas grounded in theory. The result is a book that identifies key solutions for teachers seeking to provide stimulating day-to-day classroom activities. Rich in examples and case studies, The Ingredients of Challengeis indispensable reading for anyone interested in helping children stay motivated and improve performance through challenging activities. With a specific focus on the highly able learner, this book offers convincing answers to those striving to guide learning and challenge children and also to those who advise teachers and create policy.

Dr Carrie Winstanley is principal lecturer at Roehampton University, with particular responsibility for Learning and Teaching. She also works with highly able children and is the author of Too Clever by Half.