Test your awareness _tE

Lesson observations Lesson observation: narrative and summary Using the ATS level descriptors Effective feedback to promote looking at the ‘bigger picture’

General points about lesson observations Formal observation once a week Informal feedback is very effective and this should be encouraged from all observing staff Trainee should be proactive about organising observations (covering a range of classes) Lesson plans should be given at least 24 hours before or agreed as a department- whatever works for the trainee and you Focus taken from mentor meetings/targets Use of ATS level descriptors Use of ATS level descriptors ESSENTIAL: All teachers who are observing need to know this and this should be shared in departments.

ATS level descriptors

NARRATIVE

SUMMARY

Look at the examples of lesson observations and consider what you think they do well, and how they can be improved. WWWEBI

Post lesson discussion Q1 How do you conduct your feedback? Q2 What effective questions should we ask to our trainees after the lesson to show their ability to reflect?

Post lesson discussion Firstly, draw out the positive What did they enjoy the most? What was good about…. Lead them to consider key questions What have the students learnt to get to this point? How would you do that lesson again? How do you know the students made progress? What was the purpose of the activity/strategy/instruction? Consider timings- how would you change the time of the activity and why?

Reflecting on the ‘bigger picture’ Considering overall development in mentor meetings: Reflect on the last weeks lesson with that class, do you think there is evidence of learning? How do you think the students have reacted to your teaching style? Why do you think this? Look through the books of the sequence of lessons: talk through the tasks and the intended outcome. What are you going to do differently with this class in the next few lessons? How have you developed as a teacher in the last few lessons? What do you want me to do to support you in this?

Ways forward Use a laptop/iPad to observe Use department time to outline expectations from everyone Use the ATS level descriptors in mentor meetings and lesson observation Use the ATS level descriptors in mentor meetings and lesson observation