TS 3: Demonstrate good subject and curriculum knowledge
– Have a secure knowledge of the relevant subject(s) and curriculum areas, foster and maintain pupils’ interest in the subject, and address misunderstandings
During my time at my six week placement, I became increasingly nervous about the choice of religion for the GCSE; Hinduism. This was one religion that I really had no prior knowledge of, so I knew that in order to stay ahead of the students, I needed to learn fast! I spent the first week observing my mentor teaching, and due to the size of the school and the amount of classes, I observed the same lessons a few times over.
I got my hands on a Hinduism textbook, the WJEC specification and ensured I planned all my own lessons as it is through that process that I find I learn most effectively. I planned a lesson on Holi, Diwali and pilgrimage. This led me to understand the key beliefs of Hinduism, the cycle of life for a Hindu and the ways in which they practice their faith.
Students as from this year will be taking their RS GCSE in Year 10. I had to deliver revision lessons with Year 11’s taking their exams this year, the last Year 11 to do so. In order to ensure they were prepared for the exam, I asked them to complete a practice paper on Hindu beliefs and practices during my time at my six week placement school. I then marked the paper and fed back with them, a great way for them to revise and recognise any gaps in their learning. It was also through marking this paper and completing DIRT with students, that I was able to improve my own subject knowledge of Hinduism.
