Towson University

Classroom Observation

Intern: Brianna Linehan Date: March 9, 2017

Time:
School: Dogwood Elementary School Class
Grade: 4 Size: 21
Mentor: Victoria Yurek-Gordon Subject:Math/Fractions

Objective:
Not
Observed Observed N
In
Planning Progres A
s
Lesson is aligned with appropriate content standard and indicator. X
Lesson is aligned with appropriate InTASC principle. X
Lesson objective identifies intended learning. X
Lesson objective is worded in student terms. X
Formative assessment is directly aligned with the objective. X
Instructional materials are attractive and readily available. X
Comments:
The objective is appropriate for the content standards, indicators and InTASC principles.
We can write fractions as equations by decomposing them into sums of fractions.
One of the students read the objective and the class was given a further explanation of the details.
Students were asked to make connections to yesterdays lesson.
The objective was referred to 2 times during the whole group lesson and small group sessions.

ContextforLearning
Students demonstrate adequate prior knowledge to be successful learners. X
Grouping techniques are appropriate for intended learning. X
Comments:
Yesterday students used models to decompose fractions. Models were available as were the anchor charts. Students were given the choice
to work with a partner to solve engagement activities.
Students returned from lunch and proceeded to the daily routine to prepare their materials, desks, and selves for the math lesson.

MotivationforLearning
Connections are made between students experiences and the new learning. X
Strategies are used to promote excitement and stimulate thinking. X
Positive reinforcement is used when appropriate. X
Comments:
The class consists of 20+ students seated at tables arranged for collaboration and group work. Small group varied as some students
needed more directed practice with decomposing fractions.
ImplementingtheLesson
An appropriate review/drill/warm-up/motivation is conducted. X
Objective is posted, shared with students, discussed and clarified as needed. X
Instructional activities are meaningful and relate to the objective. X
Instructional activities are appropriately sequenced. X
Instructional activities are varied to address different learning styles. X
There is a balance between teacher-directed and student-centered learning experiences. X
Students are actively engaged during instruction. X
Teacher/student modeling sequence is appropriate to intended learning. X
Expectations/standards for student work are clearly communicated. X
Class begins and ends on time. X
Pacing is appropriate and adjusted based on student feedback. X
Transitions between activities are efficient and effective. X
Levels of questions are varied and support the objective. X
Content is accurate. X
Instruction makes cross-curricular connections (as appropriate) X
Instruction integrates the use of technology (as appropriate). X
Homework assignment is appropriate. X
Comments:
After the objective was read, the students worked within their groups or individually to solve a question shown on the white board. They were
able to use any of the manipulatives that were available at their desks. (area models, anchor charts, peer tutors, fraction bars) They were able to
use different colors to show the different number sentences with the fractions. The students watched as the teacher modeled how to decompose
fractions to understand the variety of fractions.

The pairs of students used the manipulatives to show 11/10 as teacher demonstrates with models colored purple to illustrate the improper
fraction. Using the manipulatives, student pairs created a number sentence. 10/10 + 1/10 = 11/10 or 1 and 1/10. Several other examples practiced
with physical items (manips.), visual, and verbal based upon students level.

Then students copied what they had done today in their notebooks. decomposing fractions with models/equations They then glued on their
note-sheet on the page.

The students then completed a practice problem. They added all this to their table contents. The practice problem was a word problem shown
on the screen. It was similar to the examples used in the whole group lesson except that it included 3 different fractions.

During small group, the learning was extended by asking the student to decompose fractions and improper fractions. The students discussed
improper fractions and that it added up to more than 1when decomposing and adding as in yesterdays lesson/skill.

The routine of recording the days work in the notebook and the table contents was evident throughout the class.

Not
Observed In Progress Observed NA

Assessing Student Learning/Differentiation

Student data (as available) is used to inform instructional decisions. X
Informal assessment strategies are utilized throughout the lesson. X
Instruction is adjusted based on informal assessments of student understanding. X
Instructional modifications (interventions/enrichment) are provided and based on needs of X
students.
Students practice new learning independently. X
Formative assessment is completed during the class period. X
Future instructional planning is based on formative data (Post observation discussion). X
Comments:
Students had access to fraction bars, white boards, color-coding, and modified note sheets and assessments.
Students were divided into small groups for individualized re-teaching at 3 stations.
The stations included; decomposing fractions on the carpet, dream box at their seats and re-teaching skills at the back table.
The students were handed different colored chips to indicate the small group they were to go with. This was based on their mastery of the
practice problem.
SummarizingtheLesson
Summary provides connections to past and/or future lessons. X
Students demonstrate, reflect and evaluate attainment of the objective. X
Comments:
After the small groups finished, the class was brought back together to revisit the objective and what they accomplished in class.

ClassroomManagement
Student behavior is managed effectively. X
A positive and supportive atmosphere is maintained. X
Classroom routines and procedures are evident. X
Appropriate feedback and reinforcement are used consistently. X
Instructional space, equipment, and materials are organized. X
Comments:
Re-direction was used throughout the class in order to keep the students on task and focused. Students were responsive to the re-direction.
You circulated throughout the lesson to make sure the students were on task and following the lesson. Working with the instructional assistant to
modify and reinforce positive behaviors was shown as a strong routine and consistent reinforcements.
Professionalism
The intern uses correct English. X
The intern demonstrates knowledge of instructional strategies. X
The intern appears sensitive to individual needs and differences. X
The intern uses AV materials and technology appropriately. X
All written materials are clear and legible. X
The intern uses a clear voice, which is appropriately adjusted in volume and inflection. X
The intern uses non-verbal communication effectively. X
Comments: