NAME OF STRATEGY: OBSERVATION CHARTS CATEGORY: FOCUS AND MOTIVATION

RESEARCHERS AND OR ORIGINS:

Judy MoeLA Unified classroom teacher

WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE

IMPORTANT

TO

KNOW

Observation charts are the most successful with multiple pictures on each one and a separate piece of white paper for sketching and writing. This can also lead, later in the unit, to partners or teams labeling the charts. The key here is not can they write or sketch the question, comment or prediction. The key is the academic discourse that occurs as they access background information visually, in pairs, not teams. There is NO PROMPT at the top of the charts.

KEY POINTS: WHAT:

4-8 CHARTS WITH 4-6 LARGE AUTHENTIC PICTURE FILE CARDS GROUPED BY THEME White unlined paper next to each chart for students to write on. o Ask a question o Make a comment O Make a prediction

WHY:

Visual Prompt to Inquiry Activates prior knowledge and visual stimulation Sets a foundation for the unit of study Academic discourse - It is important for kids to have academic discourse (talk about learning) Motivates students to learn Develops oral language skills by fostering oral discussion Encourages students to act like scientists, models the scientific method. Sets purpose and focuses learning for all grade levels and language levels

WHY:

Use as a springboard to Inquiry Chart Use as a diagnostic tool of background knowledge, interest and spelling Use as an assessment tool at the end of the unit Develops oral language skills Fosters oral discussion Sets behavioral expectations for pairs of students by incorporating the personal standards Visual images important for all learners

HOW:

Have students choose a partner. As a pair they may have one pen/pencil-this prompts the need to have discourse. With their partner they need to visit each of the observation charts and talk about what they see. After the academic discourse, each pair agrees on a comment, question, or a prediction to write or they may sketch something. The importance here is the academic discourse the students are having as they visit each picture. Walk around and listen..you will be amazed. Can write or sketch - Sketching promotes language There is no need to predetermine how long each team stays at each chart or when they need to change Allow students to make good decisions. Use the personal standards here. Dont over manage As students participate in this activity the teacher walks around listening to the discourse and hands out awards based on the personal standards.

VARIATIONS AND EXTENSIONS:

Observation Charts can be discussed to clear up misconceptions, answer questions, etc. They can also be revisited during the course of the unit to assess what learning has occurred. Use as an assessment tool at the end of the unit. Use as a springboard to the inquiry chart. Students can bring in pictures they find to support unit of study