Distingui
Domain 1: Planning and Preparation shed Comments
3 1 2 3 4 This lesson was one in a sequence on fantasy
1a Demonstrating Knowledge of Content and Pedagogy writing that focused on the use of adjectives.
3 1 2 3 4 The activities supported the outcomes and were
1b Demonstrating Knowledge of Students
differentiated to allow students to extend their
3 1 2 3 4 thinking as appropriate. There was formative
1c Setting Instructional Outcomes
assessment throughout with teacher and student
2 1 2 3 4 monitoring learning for themselves and each
1d Demonstrating Knowledge of Resources
other against clear criteria.
3 1 2 3 4 She is aware of challenges students face at
1e Designing Coherent Instruction
home and makes appropriate accommodations.
3 1 2 3 4
1f Designing Student Assessments
Domain 3: Instruction
3 1 2 3 4 The lesson is very well thought out with
3a Communicating with Students appropriate scaffolding throughout. Discussion
3 1 2 3 4 and questioning invites engagement from all and
3b Using Questioning and Discussion Techniques
leads them to higher order thinking skills as they
3 1 2 3 4 agree/disagree and explain their thinking.
3c Engaging Students in Learning
Students are aware of assessment criteria and
4 1 2 3 4 actively monitor their work in both large group
3d Using Assessment in Instruction
and individual practice.
3 1 2 3 4
3e Demonstrating Flexibility and Responsiveness
Notes: The class opens with good news. Becca then leads a lesson on identifying parts of speech,
particularly adjectives with the end goal of students incorporating adjectives into their own writing as
they continue work on a fantasy piece about an animal. She uses questioning and well-designed
formative assessment moves to engage students in all aspects of the lesson, from ‘I can’ statements to
discussion about parts of speech that includes analyzing writing and citing evidence. The writing
outcomes of the individual part of the lesson are clear, as are expectations in general for a 5 star
sentence. When student give an incorrect answer or seem unsure of themselves, Becca keeps them
involved in learning by inviting them to call on a friend for help. She instills respect and confidence at
every move. As students work individually, they are enthusiastically engaged, she assists them as
needed reminding and asking what their goals are; helping them think through the lesson again to apply
it to their own work. Their writing folder includes supports and a sticker chart for students to monitor and
assess their own work.
What specific suggestions can you offer for this student's growth?
Becca is fortunate to have been placed with a CT who provides strong support in many of the
more challenging aspects of teaching, including formative assessment. My advice at this point
is to make sure you’re handling the planning and instruction independently so you can really
internalize these methods and apply them in future situations.
Observe other teachers in your building so you can see how the methods of your CT compare
overall to classroom management and effective teaching/learning.
Additional Comments: