What is a mini-lesson?

No, it's not a lesson in a classic car! A mini-lesson is a 'unit of learning' during which the pupil learns a specific aspect of a skill.

A clear example might be learning about roundabouts which might be broken down as follows:

• The lesson introduction:

• The 'drive out' from the start location to the main area/route of the lesson (warm-up)

• mini-lesson 1: Turning left at roundabouts

• mini-lesson 2: Going ahead at roundabouts

• mini-lesson 3: Turning right at roundabouts

• The drive home

• The de-brief/reflection at the end of the lesson

The mini-lessons would each have a short introduction including any relevant information about the subject, possible with a briefing or demonstration. This would be followed by practise with assistance as required, feedback and error correction.

Each mini-lesson will also have a focused route offering opportunities for practise:

• The turning left route would only include left turns at roundabouts.

• The 'ahead' route would primarily have 'straight ahead' routes, but could include left turns.

• The turning right route would focus on right turns but could include left turns or roads straight ahead.

Next: Mini-lessons and the 'serial position effect'...