The confused, and confusing, mixture of messages conveyed by the instructions on teaching reading and writing is alarming. At Level 2, children must use more than one strategy in reading unfamiliar words . These proposals exemplify the methodological muddle known as mixed methods. The Level 4 description for Speaking and Listening says pupils must use appropriately some of the features of Standard English vocabulary and grammar . State school pupils in England should be allowed to do Single or Double Award Science, or any or all of the separate sciences, so they are not disadvantaged in comparison with pupils in Scotland, and those at independent schools.
All historical facts are to be optional.
This prescription is unachievable, unrealistic and inappropriate for the age group. These, it is claimed, provide opportunities for pupils to reflect critically on their place in the world and their rights and responsibilities in relation to other people and the environment. Understanding environmental change and sustainable development and awareness of global citizenship will be required, and margin notes in the proposals reinforce the ideological intent. There is no question that what is intended is for pupils to engage in political activism, at the behest of their teachers, from an early age. The programmes of study for geography follow the skills-led format of the history curriculum.