Book excerpt: An essential tool for new teachers and trainees who want to use learning theories to develop their practice. The text explores key learning theories in a pragmatic way and encourages focused reflection to promote critical analysis of theories and their potential application to specific contexts. The authors highlight the practical benefits of using theory in planning, teaching and reflecting on practice. The text also encourages the use of a range of creative approaches to enhance learning. Each chapter explores a key aspect of the teacher's role (such as planning, motivation or assessment) and outlines theories relating to this theme - fully embedding the use of learning theories in practical every day teaching. It includes activities for reflection and a section encouraging readers to 'map' the theory to their own practice. Scenarios and case studies throughout illustrate learning and support readers link theory to practice.