Classroom Observation

On Wednesday afternoon, I received a final report from my coordinator and Special Education Director from the County after finished observing my class. They covered on four parts of the observation: instructional materials and strategies, classroom organization and management, student engagement, and communication. It was a two page worth of an observation, but I'll skim the statements.

Instructional Materials and Strategies:

The teacher did a good job connecting current and new learning to previous learning and across content area. She used a map and a globe to add clarification to details in the lessons.

The assessment materials developed around the story were exceptional. Those provided included excellent vocabulary development materials (including visuals/pictures with the printed words) and appropriate modification to the lessons. Also the student was given questions to respond to regarding the materials covered which required that the student use their writing skills to develop complete thoughts and sentences which included summarizing and making inferences.

Classroom Organization and Management:

The classroom is well organized with clear physical boundaries. Visual cues are used to label different materials, work areas, and expectations. The wall space was used efficiently and clearly delineated core topics by grade levels (math, literature, activities, word wall, noun-verb-adjective wall, calendar, maps, etc.) the classroom rules posted on the whiteboard, it was challenge to read. However, both the teacher and the IA used constant positive reinforcing language with the students, which demonstrates evidence of a positive behavior management system. The students were very responsive to the praise and appeared to be confident learners, as a result of the praise and scaffolded instruction.

Student Engagement:

The children were actively engaged in the direct instruction, and those who were doing independent tasks were engaged and on tasks the majority of the time. By grouping the students at their performance levels and utilizing staff, the instruction time was maximized and use appropriately to keep students on task and eager to learn.

Communication:

The teacher and the IA used very clear communication with t students, including ASL, CASE, sim-com, along with visuals to support language development. Both the teacher and the IA used very positive language, facial expressions and body language while working with the students, providing positive feedback and encouragement. Even when a student responded with and error, the teacher gave praise, and reinforced by providing the correct answer and clarification.

At the end of the meeting, I felt really good that I received an outstanding report especially from the director. Also, I was told that I have a natural talent in teaching.