Cognition and learning
Precision teaching
Precision teaching is a practical, highly focused approach that helps pupils make rapid progress through short, daily practice of a clearly defined skill, with progress tracked in a simple, visual way.
It focuses on one small skill at a time, using brief, regular practice and frequent measurement so staff can quickly see what’s working and adjust teaching in real time.
Unlike broader or longer interventions, precision teaching builds fluency as well as accuracy, enabling pupils to develop confidence and independence step by step while ensuring supporting staff can respond quickly to any barriers to progress.
Precision teaching resources
Paired reading
Paired reading is a structured, supportive approach where a pupil reads alongside a more fluent reader, building confidence, accuracy and enjoyment of reading through shared, success-oriented practice.
The pair read aloud together, with the adult (or peer) providing immediate support and encouragement, gradually stepping back as the pupil gains independence.
Unlike more formal interventions, paired reading is highly interactive and relationship-based, promoting fluency, motivation and positive reading habits through regular, engaging practice.
Paired reading resources
Mediated learning
Mediated learning is a structured, interaction-focused approach where an adult actively supports a pupil to think, reflect and make sense of their learning, rather than simply completing a task.
Through careful questioning, modelling and feedback, the adult helps the pupil develop strategies, deepen understanding and transfer skills to new situations.
Unlike more directive teaching approaches, mediated learning places emphasis on developing independent thinking and cognitive skills, enabling pupils to become more confident, reflective and self-regulated learners over time.
Mediated learning resources
Cogmed
Cogmed is a structured, computer-based programme designed to strengthen working memory through regular, targeted practice.
Pupils complete short, adaptive training sessions where tasks automatically adjust in difficulty, ensuring an appropriate level of challenge and sustained engagement.
Supported by a trained adult, the focus is on building attention, memory and perseverance.
Unlike more general teaching approaches, Cogmed is highly personalised and data-driven, aiming to improve underlying cognitive skills that can support learning across a range of areas.
Cogmed resources
Memory games and activities
Memory games and activities are structured, engaging tasks designed to strengthen pupils’ ability to retain and recall information through repetition, rehearsal and strategy use.
These might include matching games, sequencing tasks or recall challenges, often delivered in short, regular sessions. With adult guidance, pupils are encouraged to develop strategies such as chunking, visualising or verbal rehearsal.
Unlike more formal programmes, memory activities are typically flexible and easily adapted, focusing on building core memory skills in an interactive, motivating way that supports learning across the curriculum.
Memory games and activities resources
5 step working memory approach
The 5‑step working memory approach is a structured, classroom-friendly framework that supports pupils who struggle to hold and use information during tasks.
It typically involves breaking learning into manageable steps, reducing cognitive load, repeating and reinforcing key information, supporting with visuals or prompts, and encouraging pupils to rehearse and check their understanding.
Delivered consistently by staff within everyday teaching, it focuses on making learning more accessible rather than adding separate interventions.
Unlike standalone programmes, this approach is easily embedded into routine practice, helping pupils build independence and succeed within the flow of the classroom.
5 step working memory approach resources
Pre-teaching
Pre-teaching is a proactive approach where key vocabulary, concepts or tasks are introduced to pupils ahead of whole-class teaching, helping them feel prepared and confident to engage.
Delivered in short, focused sessions, it allows pupils to become familiar with new learning in a supportive, low-pressure context. Adults can clarify meaning, model expectations and address potential misconceptions early.
Unlike reactive support, pre-teaching reduces barriers in advance, enabling pupils to participate more independently and successfully in subsequent lessons.