Case Study

Andrey is working as a teaching assistant for a class of Year 5 pupils, and supports several children who have trouble with their reading. He runs a weekly group reading session of four pupils that need additional help, which has been organised by the teacher.One day, as he is preparing the materials for this session, the teacher informs him that another child, Naomi, will be joining the smaller group session. Naomi is the best friend of Julien, a boy who already attends the reading sessions. Both children are easily distracted and can become boisterous when in each other’s company. The other three children are quieter and Andrey is worried that they will become shy and will not be as involved in the reading session if Naomi and Julien misbehave.The story that he had planned to read was about a family trip to the beach, and both Naomi and Julien have already given indications that this story does not interest them. They have both been talking loudly about a recent football match, and are not participating in the session. 

1. How would you deal with this situation, and what measures could you put in practice to minimise any challenging behaviour and make sure that all children receive reading support?
2. Identify which factors mean that a review of the lesson plan might be necessary. How might you adapt the plan to the new situation?

It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the responses you have to the above scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague or friend and ask them to tell you whether they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your assessor.