Book Review: “The Practice Revolution” by Philip Johnston, Practice Spot Press
An informative and often humorous look at practicing between lessons.
Common practice flaws, a selection
Chopping wood with a spoon: applying inappropriate practice techniques. Solution: “Have we as teachers clearly spelled out what, where, and how to practice?”
Shiny object polishers spend there time playing what they already play well, avoiding entirely that which needs their attention. Solution: have the students keep a practice log this week.
Sheep counters play the thing over and over and over and over and… you get the picture. The following week they present their work with all the problems now firmly and perfectly entrenched. Solution: Have the student describe how they plan to fix a problem before they leave.
Speed demons, too fast, to often. Why? They want to hear it like we presented it to them. Impatience prevents them from practicing slowly because of their enthusiasm to enjoy the speed rush. Solution: Have them practice it at an appropriate tempo in class.
Clock-watchers practice the required time so they can stay out of trouble. Ouch! Solution: We need to help them regain their enthusiasm.
The book goes on and on for 320 pages of helpful techniques and strategies to make the life of ourselves and our students easier and more effective.
http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/books/The-Practice-Revolution-Philip-Johnston/9780958190503-item.html?ref=Search+Books%3a+%2527the+practice+revolution%2527
Cheers,
David
