AIDE MEMOIRE FOR LESSON OBSERVATION

NOT ALL THE FACTORS LISTED BELOW WILL BE RELEVANT TO EVERY LESSON

1.  The teacher plans effectively and sets clear objectives that are properly understood:

• The teacher has a written lesson plan;
• The topic / level of content was related to the syllabus;
• Objectives were communicated clearly at the start of the lesson;
• There was a good structure to the lesson;
• Activities / seat work were prepared for learners; and
• The learning needs of individuals were incorporated into the lesson plan.

2.   The teacher showed good subject knowledge and understanding:

• The teacher had a thorough knowledge of the subject content covered in the lesson;
• Subject material was appropriate for the lesson; and
• Knowledge was made relevant and interesting for the learners.

3.   The teaching methods used enable all learners to learn effectively:

• The lesson was linked to previous teaching and learning;
• The ideas and experiences of learners were drawn upon;
• A variety of activities and questioning techniques were used;
• Instructions and explanations were clear and specific;
• The teacher involved all learners, listened to them and responded appropriately;
• High standards of effort, accuracy and presentation were encouraged; and
• Appropriate methods of differentiation were used.

4.         Learners are well managed and high standards of behaviour are    insisted upon:

• Learners were praised regularly for their good effort and achievement;
• Prompt action was taken to address poor behaviour; and
• All learners were treated fairly, with equal emphasis on the work of boys and girls, and all ability groups.

5.   Learners’ work is assessed thoroughly:

• Learners’ understanding was assessed throughout the lesson by the use of questions;
• Mistakes and misconceptions were recognised by the teacher and used constructively to facilitate learning; and
• Learners’ written work was assessed regularly and accurately.

6.   Learners achieve productive outcomes:

• Learners remained fully engaged throughout and made progress in the lesson;
• Learners understand what work was expected of them in the lesson;
• The learners’ outcomes were consistent with the objectives set at the
• beginning; and
• The teachers and learners work at good pace.

7.   The teacher makes effective use of time and resources:

• Time was well utilised and learning was maintained for the full time available;
• A good pace was maintained throughout the lesson;
• Appropriate learning resources were used; and
• Chalk board/ marker board was used effectively.

8.         The lesson is concluded effectively with evaluation and homework is used effectively       to reinforce and extend learning:

• The main points of the lesson were summarised;
• Evaluation of taught concept effectively carried out in line with the performance objectives;
• The lesson was brought to a close; and
• Homework was set and followed up.