Reminder
The Learning Walk
Some people call it a classroom visit and others call it a learning walk. Call it what you will, the classroom walk-through is coming to a classroom near you!
As part of the professional development plan for the administrative team, the administrators are currently in the process of learning to effectively use TeachPoint. TeachPoint is evaluation software designed to support the evaluation process and compliment the new Massachusetts Model System for Educator Evaluation. Since, as a school, we are not actively using the new system, the administrators will be conducting their Learning Walks as a way to practice using the new software.
Do not be concerned when administrators, with iPads in hand, walk through your classroom or shop. You may see people other than your evaluator. They are not evaluating you. We are using "test school" templates that do not link to specific teachers. Please do not interrupt instruction. If we need to speak with you, I promise, we will let you know. Don't be offended if our eye contact is minimal or our expressions confused...it is not a reflection of you but more likely wondering about how to use the software...
As with any visit to a classroom, should an administrator see something concerning, they will speak with you personally and privately.
Below you will find an example of the Classroom Walk-through form. You may notice that there is a timer feature included. A Learning Walk will not last longer than 9 minutes in any one class.
Classroom Walk-through
| Name: | Margaret Dutch | Evaluator: | Self-Evaluation |
| School: | South Shore Voc Tech High School | Date: | Jan 3, 2013 7:49 PM EST |
| Subject: | Administration | Elapsed: | 0:00 sec |
| Grade: | Share: |
Lesson/ Activity ObjectiveWhat is the "easily discernable" topic, skill, or concept that is the learning goal of the lesson or activity?
Student Engagement LevelEngagement defined as: "students attending to the instructional activities occurring in class."
Strategies Used to Ensure EngagementWhat is the teacher doing to ensure that all students are engaged in meaningful learning activities?
Comments on Engagement Strategies
Instructional Practices Used to Help Students Interact with Content
Frequency of "Checks for Understanding" (formative assessment)
Comments on the use of Instructional Practices
Student Instructional ModeHow are students engaging in instruction?
Teacher Instructional ModeWhat is the teacher doing to deliver instruction?
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Looking for a Resolution?
In case you were looking for a resolution for the New Year, here are a few suggestions...
- I will plan my lessons beginning with the end in mind (UbD)
- I will plan my classes to run Bell to Bell
- I will check in on a new teacher
- I will make an extra effort to be collegial
- I will not give cookies to anyone who is participating in the Biggest Loser!
Happy New Year!
Margaret
