... different concept if the idea is a little 'far out'. This is fundamental in the building of a learning environment in which children feel comfortable sharing their ideas in. Harlen (1996) states that within this environment all ideas suggested by the children should be treated with equal validity. This school of thought was put into practice during the lesson by avoiding pigeonholing children (based on observations made on the children in previous lessons.) and abstaining from any judgemental remarks, which might put children off suggesting any more ideas. For example when discussing what paper they thought would absorb the most water, Lucy remarked that the newspaper had more words on it which would help it absorb more water. Although this is obviously an abstract idea, Lucy was encouraged to explore her ideas with a member of the group with an opposing view. The ASE Guide (1998) highlights the importance of ...

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