Cornerstone Learning TutorsGlossary
Glossary
School words, explained without jargon
Definitions written for parents rather than for teachers, with the related words listed beside each one. If a term you have heard is missing, ask your coordinator.
The full list, alphabetical
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Assessment
noun/uh-SESS-muhnt/
Any check of what a pupil can do, from a short quiz in class to a full exam paper. It can be formal or informal.
See also:baseline, formative feedback
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Baseline
noun/BAYS-line/
An early check of what a pupil can already do, taken before teaching begins. It gives the tutor something to measure later work against.
See also:assessment, progress report
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Command word
noun
The verb at the start of an exam question, such as describe, explain or evaluate. It tells the pupil what kind of answer earns marks.
See also:mark scheme, mock exam
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DBS check
noun/dee-bee-ESS chek/
A criminal record check run in the UK before someone can work with children. An enhanced check is the standard for tutors who visit a home.
See also:safeguarding
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Exam board
noun
The organisation that writes and marks the papers for a qualification such as a GCSE or an A-level. Different boards set slightly different papers.
See also:mark scheme, mock exam
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Formative feedback
noun/FOR-muh-tiv FEED-bak/
Comments given during the work rather than at the end, so a pupil can change what they are doing. It usually points at the next step.
See also:assessment, progress report
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Key stage
noun
A block of school years in England and Wales, from key stage 1 at age five up to key stage 5 in the sixth form. Each block ends with its own checks or exams.
See also:assessment, progress report
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Mark scheme
noun
The document examiners use to award marks for each question. It shows where credit is given, including for method as well as the final answer.
See also:command word, mock exam
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Mock exam
noun/mok ig-ZAM/
A full practice paper sat under exam conditions, usually at school. It shows how a pupil copes with timing as well as with content.
See also:mark scheme, assessment
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Phonics
noun/FON-iks/
The method of teaching reading by linking letters and groups of letters to the sounds they make. It is the main approach used in early primary reading.
See also:key stage
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Progress report
noun
A written summary of what a pupil has covered, what has improved and what comes next. Parents usually receive one at the end of a block of lessons.
See also:formative feedback, baseline
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Retrieval practice
noun/ri-TREE-vuhl PRAK-tis/
Recalling something from memory instead of rereading it. The effort of remembering is what strengthens the memory.
See also:spacing, working memory
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Safeguarding
noun/SAFE-gar-ding/
The steps a school or a tutor takes to keep children safe, including checks on staff and clear rules about contact. Records are kept of every visit to a home.
See also:DBS check
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Scaffolding
noun/SKAF-uhl-ding/
Temporary support a tutor gives while a pupil learns a new step, then removes as the pupil takes it on alone. It is meant to disappear.
See also:working memory, formative feedback
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Spacing
noun/SPAY-sing/
Spreading practice of the same topic over days or weeks rather than doing it all at once. Recall is often weaker on the day and stronger later.
See also:retrieval practice
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Working memory
noun
The small amount of information a person can hold in mind while using it. Younger pupils often run out of room before the end of a question.
See also:scaffolding, retrieval practice