Authors

Michael Shanks
All articles by Michael Shanks
The challenge of teaching controversy - without being controversial
It is crucial that schools give pupils a safe space to engage with controversial topics, says teacher Michael Shanks
General
29 September 2022
Arguement
Why we must help pupils think - and speak - on their feet
All teachers can help children build crucial oracy skills
General
21 April 2022
Why we must help pupils think – and speak – on their feet
What I did today when students asked about Ukraine
Modern studies is a subject unique to Scotland and it is ideally placed for explaining today’s historic events in Ukraine, says Michael Shanks
General
24 February 2022
Here's what I did today when pupils asked about Ukraine
Why this teacher is running every street in Glasgow
Lockdown jumpstarted one teacher’s exercise regime in one of the most ambitious ways imaginable
General
26 June 2021
When a student votes, you know you’ve had an impact
It’s been amazing getting students engaged with today’s Scottish election, says modern studies teacher Michael Shanks
6 May 2021
‘Teaching politics is exciting - and exhausting’
The US election has dispelled notions of political apathy among young people, says modern studies teacher Michael Shanks
5 November 2020