“Early Finishers” is a new 7-book series that does what it says on the tin and more! It’s basically made up of copymasters that primarily (though not exclusively) for pupils who finish their work early and need extra activities which they can complete independently.
The books are divided into six sections:
Looking at words, following directions, working with numbers, critical thinking, looking at pictures and getting creative.
13/20
Relevance to curriculum aims: 4/5
Of course, this does have relevance to the curriculum aims, it is up to the teacher to check this though and if they need to put these into their planning. It covers maths and english with extra important subjects like creativity and critical thinking, all strand units and skills from the curriculum. It could be used as a tool for differentiation in the sense that the more able/quicker child would be able to access these. It also has a pupil record sheet for your assessment. This could be improved by linking the copymasters with Irish curriculum subjects such as in history-the vikings etc.
Teacher usability: 4/5
It would be easy enough to use once you have photocopied it out, advice would be to photocopy a couple of levels for the class. Depending on the ability of the child, you could then direct them to the appropriate level. There is lots of interesting material and ideas for you to use within your own teaching. I particularly liked the “Looking at words” section as I am a big fan of Brendan Culligan and his method of teaching spellings. There are lots of “Brendan Culligan” spelling activities here that will help the children play with words. It is highly enjoyable, so much in just one book!
Value for money: 5/5
This will last you forever and ever! It is €24.95. A really impressive resource for mainstream and support teachers. It does exactly what it says it does. I wonder would Prim-Ed give a school a discount if they bought all 7?
Extras: No extras and no need! 0/5
Check out this website for some good ideas for those early finishers!
http://www2.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=3748222
