Play 5: The Memory Key Objective (MKO) Flashcards
Who is ‘The Memory Key Objective (MKO)’ for?
HT (Headteacher), DHT (Deputy Headteacher), AHT (Assistant Headteacher), and ML (Middle Leaders).
What are Memory Key Objectives (MKOs)?
MKOs apply exclusively to Years 7, 8, and 9 and are often pathway adapted. Subject-specific objectives focused on substantive knowledge students must memorise (e.g., facts, formulas, quotations). Explicitly linked to the core Key Objectives (KOs). Created centrally across the CST and published in the Memory KO Booklets provided to all KS3 students.
Why are MKOs important?
Capture core substantive knowledge that underpins procedural knowledge and challenging content. Support coherent understanding of subject curricula. Assigned as weekly homework for memorisation and assessed in class as a starter activity (Phase 1 of the EDI Playbook).
What are the steps involved in planning MKOs?
Create a project plan with clear milestones for creating or adapting MKOs. Form a team of subject specialists with clearly stated roles and responsibilities in the project plan. Schedule the Quality Assurance (QA) process, ensuring team members are familiar with it and can provide feedback. Act on feedback as required.
How should MKOs be composed?
Identify crucial content in the KS3 LTP, emphasising essential knowledge for memorisation. Create 10-15 ‘I know…’ statements covering key knowledge essential for retention, aligned with core KOs. Develop clear, concise answers for each MKO, including simple diagrams if necessary.
What steps are involved in publishing MKOs?
Align MKOs with the provided template for seamless publishing. Conduct QA and address team feedback. Upload finalised MKOs to the central MKO folder in the CST shared drive. Integrate subject-specific MKOs into MKO booklets. Upload MKOs to the DPR for tracking and monitoring, ensuring accuracy is checked by the curriculum DHT. Ensure all KS3 students receive a copy of the MKO Booklet.
How should MKOs be monitored and supported with training?
Determine if whole-school training is needed for: Setting MKO-linked homework on the DPR. Assessing and judging MKOs during starter activities as part of Phase 1. Train students on effective use of the MKO booklet. Conduct demonstrations on engaging with MKO booklets during lessons, tutor time, and assemblies. Monitor weekly engagement with MKOs during departmental line management meetings.
How are MKOs assessed?
MKOs are assessed weekly in class as part of starter activities, ensuring students’ memorisation of key knowledge.
Who is responsible for uploading MKOs to the DPR and ensuring accuracy?
MKOs are uploaded to the DPR by the Data Manager. Accuracy is checked by the curriculum DHT.
What tools are provided to students to engage with MKOs?
Memory KO Booklets containing all subject-specific MKOs, provided to all KS3 students. These booklets are used during lessons, tutor time, and assemblies.
