Teaching Observation -- Points to Consider

Planning and Preparation

Did the Teacher:

Identify key learning objectives in terms of both knowledge

and skills?
Place the session in context within the broader framework ?
Plan for student participation, structuring the session
accordingly?
Additional question for small group work:

Plan themes for discussion and tasks to be undertaken?

Start of the Session

Did the teacher:

Secure the attention of the students?

Introduce the session in an interesting way?
Make the aims of the session clear to the students?
Make the intended learning outcomes of the session clear to
the students?
Link the subject to previous learning?
Additional questions for small group work:

Introduce tasks appropriately, issuing a clear brief to

students?
Define/clarify the topic for discussion?
Explanation of the Subject

Did the teacher:

Adopt a logical and structured approach?

Move clearly from stage to stage?
Emphasise important/key points?
Use relevant examples to make the explanations clear?
Provide alternative explanations of difficult points?
Take advantage of unexpected learning opportunities that
arose?
Make good use of visual material (such material being legible
and clear) to support teaching?
Use learning resources, e.g. handouts, other study material,
to support teaching?
Make reference to additional reading material?

Presentation of the Session

Did the teacher:

Show enthusiasm for the topic?

Engage positively with the students and show respect for
individual learners?
Control the pace of delivery?
Control the timing?
Speak clearly, relevantly and when appropriate concisely?
Make eye contact with the students?
Maintain student interest?
Vary activity to promote student learning?
Maintain an appropriate level of class control and discipline?
Student Participation

Did the teacher:

Achieve the level of student participation planned for?

Ask questions to clarify understanding?
Use questions to involve students?
Handle students' questions and responses appropriately?
Keep students involved?
Monitor student progress during the session?
Additional questions for small group work:

Invite and reinforce participation by non-contributing

students?
Handle dominant students appropriately?
Draw together contributions of various group members?
Finishing the Session

Reiterate and summarise key points, summarising discussion

if appropriate?
Give clear guidance on follow up work?
Identify links with the following session?
Ensure the session ended positively and clearly?