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How Active Learning Supports Different Learning Styles

Every classroom is filled with unique learners – children who think, engage, and absorb information in different ways. At Teach Active, we believe that one of the most effective ways to reach every pupil is through active learning. By combining movement with curriculum content, active learning taps into a range of learning preferences and supports inclusive, differentiated teaching.

Understanding Learning Styles

While the idea of fixed learning styles (like visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinaesthetic) has been debated, it's clear that children benefit from learning in a variety of ways. Many pupils thrive with a multi-sensory approach – engaging with content through seeing, hearing, doing, and speaking. Active learning naturally supports this variety, making lessons more inclusive and effective.

How Active Learning Supports Different Learners

Kinaesthetic Learners

  • Move to Learn: Relay races, jumping to answers, and hands-on problem-solving bring concepts to life.
  • Tactile Tasks: Using physical objects to explore ideas supports deeper understanding.

Visual Learners

  • Visual Cues: Colour-coded cards, diagrams, and outdoor stimuli aid memory and comprehension.
  • Interactive Displays: Visual instructions at different activity stations support independence and engagement.

Auditory Learners

  • Talk It Out: Group discussions, chants, and storytelling boost listening and speaking skills.
  • Verbal Feedback: Opportunities to explain and reflect help solidify learning.

Reading/Writing Learners

  • Blended Learning: Written instructions, reflection journals, and decoding activities support traditional strengths while incorporating movement.

Why This Matters

When lessons are active, varied, and multisensory:

  • Retention improves through hands-on experience.
  • Engagement increases, especially for reluctant learners.
  • Confidence grows as pupils see their preferred style recognised.
  • Behaviour and focus benefit, creating calmer, happier classrooms.

How Teach Active Helps

Teach Active provides:

  • Ready-made, curriculum-aligned active learning resources
  • Activities for English and Maths that support all learning styles
  • Time-saving plans for busy teachers
  • A boost in both engagement and attainment

Final Thoughts

Active learning makes education more inclusive, more engaging, and more effective. By meeting children where they are – whether they learn best by seeing, moving, hearing, or writing – we open doors to deeper understanding and greater progress.

At Teach Active, we’re here to support you in creating classrooms where every child can thrive.

Try Our Free Summer Pack!

To help you bring active learning into your classroom, we’ve created a free Summer Active Learning Pack filled with fun, movement-based English and Maths activities. Perfect for the end of term, these resources are designed to engage every learner, no matter their style.

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