2. What are the key elements of observing and giving feedback?
Lesson observations
Why observe lessons?
How should we do it?
What are the key elements of observing and giving feedback?

3. What is the purpose of lesson observations?
To monitor the quality of learning;
To monitor the quality of teaching;
To model and celebrate excellence;
To share good practice;
To improve standards;
To engage in on-going dialogue on effective teaching;
To support the teacher in professional development.

4. Key points to agree or clarify before observation
The particular focus of the observation within the lesson;
Background to the lesson plan;
Any pupil specific information;
How and when there will be feedback and discussion;
What, if anything ,will be written down;
Who else, if anyone, will hear about the lesson.

5. During an observation Keep focused on the purpose of the observation;
Make good use of those parts of the lesson when you can look at how pupils are responding to the teaching ,e.g. by looking at what they are writing or by listening to what they are saying in groups;
Close to the end , make a quick note of the main points you will feed back.

6. Post observation feedback
Start with specific positives;
Use your factual notes to refer to specific examples from the lesson;
Allow the teacher to talk about their perceptions;
Be a good listener;
Keep coming back to the agreed focus;
Finish by recapping the many positives and summarising the one or two points for improvement and action;
Be honest and remember, the aim is to say something that will make a positive difference.