ABSTRACT
I must emphasise again that a child’s chronological age is only a rough guide to his/her level of achievement. Even if you are working in Key Stage 2, you will find children who still need a lot of encouragement to speak at some length, to listen for moderate amounts of time and to play an active part in group work and drama of all kinds. The naturally quiet child needs sensitive handling - you will not improve the situation by suggesting that this child should be the one who reads out their work in assembly. They would probably have a sleepless night and not be able to come to school next day! Many adults are naturally quiet. We should try to develop each child’s potential, realising that this may take more years than just those spent in primary school, and a lot more experience of life. Here are some ideas you might try.
