ABSTRACT
Communication is a complex two-way process involving the mutual exchange of information and ideas, written, verbal and non-verbal. Clear and effective communication includes not only delivering, but also receiving information, which involves listening, observation and sensitivity. Although the quality of communication between pupil and pupil in lessons is important in enhancing or hindering learning, the focus of this unit is the quality of communication between a teacher and pupils, which is critical to effective learning. Teaching involves communicating with pupils from a variety of backgrounds and with different needs. To effectively support pupils with English as an additional language, for example, requires specialist knowledge and skill for teaching within the mainstream context in a way that promotes language learning alongside content learning. In order to develop pupils’ language skills, a teacher’s language must be accessible. There is no point in talking to pupils in language they do not understand.
