ASSIGNMENT 1 (Observations): After arrival, take a seat in a nonintrusive location to

begin your classroom observations. Complete the questions below:

Observation 1: What are your first impressions of the classroom environment? Is it warm,
inviting, organized, etc.? Describe the physical environment in detail. >>>

The environment was comfortable, had organized chaos, and assignments and décor all
over the walls. There are 35 students in the class, so the environment is crowded with
desks, and supplies for the classroom.

Observation 2: Please describe the student make-up of the class, including gender, ethnicity,
ELL, students with physical challenges, and any other apparent attributes that are important to
note. >>>

There are 35 students. There are all kinds of ethnicities, races, and cultures within the
class. The dominant gender in the class is girls. When it comes to the different types of
students in the classroom, he has a couple children who are in G.A.T.E. No students have
other special courses that they take.

Observation 3: What are the posted class rules in the room? (Exactly as written) >>>

The posted class rules are:

“Follow Directions, raise your hand before speaking, respect others, and keep hands,
feet, and objects to yourself.”

Observation 4: Does the teacher enforce these posted rules? Are rewards or consequences being
used for compliance or noncompliance? >>>

The teacher brings up the rules once someone is misbehaving, but not to the point of
rewarding or having consequences within the class.
ASSIGNMENT 2 (Classroom Layout): Use graph paper or drawing software to create an
accurate overhead view, labeled drawing, of your assigned classroom before answering the
questions below

Classroom Layout Question 1: Describe the workflow of the room. Is the space used
efficiently? >>>

The space is used efficiently by having all the students in one area with their desks, and
then having his desk near his smartboard. The workflow of the room is all within their
desks. They normally do not get up from their seats besides going to the restroom,
grabbing tissues, and getting a drink of water.

Classroom Layout Question 2: In your opinion, how can the physical arrangement of the room
be improved? >>>
 To improve the layout of the classroom, I would try and space the desks out a little more,
but again, since he has so many students, it can be difficult to walk and move around as a
teacher.

ASSIGNMENT 3 (Instruction): Observe any instructional time in your assigned classroom,

and record your observations when presented with the questions below:

Instruction Question 1: What is the posted daily schedule for different subjects or periods? >>>

The posted daily schedule is:

Specials from 9:15-10:15
Math from 10:30-11:30
English/Writing from 11:30-12:30
Lunch/Recess from 12:30-1:15
Science from 1:15-2:15
Social Studies from 2:15-3:00

Instruction Question 2: Is instruction done in small groups, centers, whole groups, individual?
>>>

The instruction is done is whole groups, and if a child does not understand, then it is done
individually.

Instruction Question 3: How would you describe your cooperating teacher’s teaching style?
>>>

I would describe his teaching style to be chaotic, relaxed, but well carefully taught to his
students, so that majority of students understand.

Instruction Question 4: Does the teacher incorporate the sensory modalities (learning styles)? If
so, give examples. >>>

Since the teacher teaches 5th grade, there is not much incorporated that is a sensory
modality. He uses blocks, counters, and other object examples that will help the students
comprehend the lesson.
Instruction Question 5: Do the students seem engaged in the lesson(s) that are being presented?
Please explain. >>>

The students are very engaged because about every 20 minutes, the teacher switches it
up, and changes what they are doing in the lesson. They are always attracted to what is
happening and are engaged the entire time.

Instruction Question 6: Explain the use of culturally relevant materials, teaching strategies,
class décor, etc.  that meet the needs of today’s culturally diverse student population.  >>>

The most culturally relevant thing the teacher does is using computers. At their school,
they provide chrome books for the students, so the kids are constantly doing interactive
class games such as Kahoot, GimKit, and Quizizz.

Instruction Question 7: Is instructional time managed efficiently? Please explain >>>

The time management in the classroom is well done because each subject has about an
hour and a half of doing the lesson, classwork, and a class game that incorporates the
lesson.

Instruction Question 8: How does the cooperating teacher handle transitions from one subject
or period to another, and are these transitions efficient? >>>

Since he teaches 5th grade, the transitions are easier than imagined. He simply will tell the
students how much time they have left in a session or subject.

Instruction Question 9: List ways that the teacher attempts any “attention getting” commands?
(Ex: Countdown, Light flicker, Heads on Desk) How effective are they? >>>

To get the attention of his students, he will simply say “Class?” and they all answer
“yes.” It grabs most of the student’s attention and causes their eyes to be up in the front
of the classroom.

Instruction Question 10: What specific behavior issues does the teacher have to deal with?
How does the teacher deal with these behavior issues? Be specific. >>>

When I came into class, there were two students who were suspended for the week. The
biggest issues he will have are others fighting with each other, and also children not
caring about their education and quality of work.
Instruction Question 11: Are there any policies or procedures in place that help or hinder
instructional time? If so, explain them and how they help

The biggest procedures the teacher enforces is no talking over others. Since there are a
lot of students, not talking over each other is the biggest thing so that everyone is heard.

Instruction Question 13: Outline the lesson plan for a teaching lesson observed.  What
preparations in advance were need for teaching the lesson? >>>

He first did a hands-on activity, then talked about the new lesson being introduced, did
practice problems, let the students do the work on their own, and lastly sent home
homework about the work they learned that day.

Instruction Question 14: Describe both teacher and student uses of technology in the
classroom. >>>

The student technology use in the classroom is used for quizzes, projects they may work
on in class, some writing assignments, and for brain breakers during class. The teacher’s
use of technology is all connected to the teacher’s smartboard. The smartboard presents
to the class through a projector and his computer, so the teacher bounces back and forth
between the two.
ASSIGNMENT 4 (Culture): Using the information provided below, carefully observe and
evaluate the culture of the school where you are assigned to observe.  Remember you are
evaluating the school for its educational culture, place of learning, sense of safety, invitation for
learning, promotion of self-actualization, development of values and socialization.

Physical Characteristics:  Look at the physical areas of the school to determine atmosphere,
comfort, and feelings the school creates for students in the educational setting.

1. Consider the school property: building, grounds, fencing, equipment, landscaping,

trees, parking lot, crosswalks, gates, signs and symbols. >>> 

At the school property, it feels safe and clean. There is no trash on the property, there
are plenty of trees, and signs to direct parents or those who are on property where to go.
My favorite thing about the outside of the school is that the gates are filled with logos for
the school, and makes the school feel lively. There are tissue paper signs, bulletin boards,
and overall something always on the gates. 

2. Next, study the interior of the school:  halls, floor coverings, lighting, doors, windows,
hall colors and decorations and entrance security. >>>

The school that I have been doing my observations at provides information along the
halls that will inform anything to the parents while also providing a “homey” feeling.
 The school is not super steryl to where it feels like you can’t touch the walls, but it is very
put together. My favorite thing about this school is that no wall is empty. All the walls
are filled with bulletin boards, decorations, or information for everything that is
happening in the school.

Culture of the School: Read, listen and observe to determine the climate, values, and
atmosphere within the school.

1. Identify the school’s mission statement, motto, and mascot. >>>

The mission statement of the school is 

The motto is 
The mascot is the bear. 

2. Analyze staff and visitor interactions in the main office. Note student and faculty
interactions in other areas of the school. >>>

The staff in the main office are very welcoming. They always are willing to help you and
provide any answers that you have questions or concerns on. 

3. Look at the formal practices: School bell schedule, and the grouping of students. (ie.
grades, block scheduling, periods) Does the school use inclusion, or a pull-out program
for special education students? >>>

The school uses inclusion programs to better help students and to teach teachers who are
not special education teachers how to include others. 

4. Observe student-to-student interactions, inside and outside of the building.  Observe

where students gather to socialize – lunchroom, halls, playground, etc.  >>>

Students normally gather to socialize during their recesses. They gather on the field for
soccer or normally by the slides. The lunchroom is only side by side eating instead of
whole group eating. Students are asked to be quiet in the halls due to other classes being
in action. 

5. Examine school traditions, achievements and awards; community recognition or

community partners; extracurricular activities/clubs and athletics.  Look for and
document sources of community pride and sense of identity through ceremonies,
assemblies, trophies, and artifacts. >>>

The biggest thing that I see around the school is the different clubs the school provides
while also dedicating an entire wall to the October 1 Vegas Strong incident. They also
 decorate for different events they host while also  always posting new information upon
their walls. They have lots of community pride and are always having seasonal
assemblies and sometimes safety assemblies for the students. 

 6. Compare and contrast the current school environment and culture with schools in the
historical past. >>>

The current school environment is very joyful and every staff member looks like they
enjoy their job and working space. Before, when I attended the school, it didn’t seem as
joyful because the teachers were a lot older than they are now, and didn’t really have the
energy of always carrying the positivity throughout the school. 

Culture of the Classroom:  Each classroom has its own culture and way of life.

1. Look for teacher(s) expectations for learning and success, interactions with students,
and his/her personality. >>>

The teacher I was observing always wanted his students to learn. He was always willing
to help them individually or to help them as a whole when he sees most are struggling.
His personality is what makes the students enjoy learning in his class because of his
humor and his personal interactions with them. He knows his students well and will help
each and every one of them to be successful. 

2. Evaluate the level of student participation in the class. Who participates? Who does
not? What modifications, accommodations, and/or inclusion techniques were observed?
>>>

The student participation in the class all matters on the subject that is being taught. In
math, definitely fewer students participate because of the fear of being wrong. But, in
writing and science, most students do participate because it is based upon opinions or
textual facts. The teacher gives out participation points in the progress reports and wants
all students to succeed, so if some do not raise their hand at all, he will eventually call on
them in class. 

3. Evaluate the interactions between teachers and students, rapport, cohesiveness,

distribution of power, tone, frequency and reinforcements. >>>

I would say the interactions between teachers and students are mostly positive. I have
only witnessed a few times where a teacher got frustrated on the playground and sent the
two students to the office. But, in my opinion, it was well thought out and not completely
out of frustration and anger. 
ASSIGNMENT 5 (Cooperating Teacher Interview): Complete the questions below by
interviewing your cooperating teacher during a convenient time. Include any school documents
that your cooperating teacher will allow you to photocopy for your packet.

Interview Question 1: What was the primary reason you became a teacher? >>>

The primary reason I became a teacher was because I wanted to serve the community in a new
way, and of course, the summers are off. 

Interview Question 2: What are the main challenges you face as a teacher? >>>

The main challenges I face are trying to handle student behavior, and the lack of prior
knowledge. 

Interview Question 3: What is the best part of being a teacher? >>>

The best part about teaching is the independence and flexibility that occurs in the classroom. 

Interview Question 4: How do you determine where students sit in class? >>>

I determine it by the MAP testing data. I put a strong, a weak, and two mediums at each table. 
Interview Question 5: How do you determine the members of any flexible groups? >>>

I determine it by MAPS scores and their formative testing skills. 

Interview Question 6: Beyond standardized testing, what assessments do you use regularly?
>>>

I do formative tests, summative tests, and iReady diagnostics. 

Interview Question 7: What requirements are placed on you for reporting progress to parents?
>>>  

We send home 2-3 progress reports a month. I personally send out a group text saying what is
due next week. 

Interview Question 8: How often do you interact with a student’s parents in person, and what
type of discussions do you typically have? >>>

I rarely talk to parents in person. I only talk to them during teacher/ parent conferences. 

Interview Question 9: How much grading do you complete on a daily/weekly basis? >>>

I normally grade on my preps. I get about 10 assignments done in a week. 

Interview Question 10: How long does it take to prepare lessons for the day/week? >>>

It takes about 20 minutes to prepare for the lessons daily. 

Interview Question 11: What procedures or strategies do you use to maximize instructional
time? >>>

To maximize instructional time, I provide hands-on items, draw the model, and lastly, do an
algorithm. I want to go step by step for the kids to get everything out of it.

Interview Question 12: What positive reinforcement programs have you had success with, and
what behavioral consequences seem most effective with this age group? >>>

Texting homes is the biggest consequence they receive and do not like. I also have a program
where there are positive reinforcements with treasure boxes. 

Interview Question 13: How are specialist teachers involved in the instructional planning
process? >>>
 The specialist teachers are not normally involved in the instructional planning process. 

Interview Question 14: How often are you evaluated, and what measurement tool is used by the
administration for determining your teaching performance? >>>

I am evaluated about 3 times a year since I have been here for so long, but they evaluate newer
teachers more. They use a rubric on the teachers to decide whether or not they are performing
correctly. 

Interview Question 15: What consequences are there if your evaluation is not favorable? >>>

They will come in more often and try and assist you with your lessons, and will also send you
to trainings 

Interview Question 16: What types of support do you receive instructionally, financially, or
professionally from the school, parent organization or school district to enhance instruction? >>>

There are really only training supports that are provided for the teachers. 

Interview Question 17: What surprised you most about teaching as a profession? >>

The thing that surprised me most about teaching is that most parents do not care about their
child’s education. 

Interview Question 18: What collaboration and planning do you do with your grade-level team
or subject-department? >>>

We daily talk about what is going on in each of our classes and weekly decide what we will
teach about in the upcoming weeks. 
ASSIGNMENT 6 (Observing a student):  Discretely observe one student in your assigned
classroom during an extended period of direct instruction. 

Detail what was going on in the environment, and what you observed the student doing while the
lesson was being given. Make sure to document ALL behavior in relationship to what was being
presented by the classroom teacher. Please describe the setting, the lesson that was given, if the
student was on task and engaged in the lesson, and what you uncovered about putting yourself in
a lesson from the student’s point of view. >>> 

The student I observed was paying full attention to the teacher. Everything that he was saying,
she was listening. She was also the student that would raise her hand for questions, and always
tried to answer the question. Today, they were talking about fractions. The setting was
somehow organized chaos. Since he has 35 students, there is not much one-on-one time, but
when the students are in need of help, the teacher will come around and assist them. The
student I was observing seemed to care a lot about her education because she always had her
notebook out taking notes. Even if the rest of the class didn’t, she did. Since fractions were
being taught, the teacher provided blocks that would help everyone visually see the fractions.
By putting myself in the student’s shoes, I would try my best to be like her and always
focusing on what the teacher had to say. 
ASSIGNMENT 7 (Summary):  Thoroughly summarize and reflect upon your entire 10 hour
Field Observation Placement.

>>>

My ten hours were honestly very intriguing because I got to view a classroom as a teacher, and
see another perspective in a classroom. Specifically, my experience with observations was
amazing because I get to observe a teacher that I used to have. Being in his point of view as a
teacher makes me realize how good of a teacher he is. I got to see his different style of
teaching, that me, a preschool teacher, would have never used. He likes his room being in
chaos, but all of his students respect him and want to learn within the chaos. He always caught
the students’ attention with his humor, but while doing that, he would teach them something
new. Since he has been a teacher for about 20 years, I know he has got to be a good one. I look
up to Mr. Rankin as a teacher and as a person because he truly cares about his student’s
learning and education, while also caring about them personally.