Teacher evaluation ideas:
As an evaluator, I find it very important and meaningful to conduct a variety of different observations of teachers. Below, I will share some different ideas that I like to use when I conduct a walkthrough for a teacher. Each time I observe, I try to observe a different aspect of he lesson.
Follow up resources
I recommend all teachers and leaders sign up for Classroomcheckup.org. The Classroom Check-Up (CCU) is a resource for teachers and individuals in the role of supporting teachers (i.e. Coaches) to support effective classroom behavior management. Our goal is to make evidence-based training and resources assessible to school professionals in their efforts to create positive learning environments.
Teacher observations for equity and inclusivity:
It is very important to provide teachers with feedback to help them teach with equity. I like to use two mapping tools to evaluate and coach a teacher to achieve equity when teaching.
- Teacher space utilization: This allows the teacher to reflect on how they are able to actively monitor all students throughout a lesson. It is important for teachers to connect with all students within their classroom and being aware of where you are physically in the room can help a teacher understand how they can better meet the needs of all students.
- Verbal interaction observations: Using a diagram like the one pictured below, the teacher is able to better reflect on who she calls on during a lesson and how she encourages discourse on content being taught. To ensure equity in the classroom, a teacher should be calling and conversing with all students as often as possible.
Teacher observations for teaching methods and practices:
Instructional expectations: Creating a set of instructional expectations provides instructional leaders with a check list method of evaluating and observing teachers.
- Components of professional practice: This type of observation provides more details on all components of a successful classroom. Observers may use this as a check list or anecdotal notes about what is occurring during a lesson observation.
- Whole group direct instruction check list: This tool allows an observer to evaluate if all components of whole group instruction are evident during a lesson and provides them with a space to write feedback comments.
- Teacher Keys Effectiveness System Rubric [This is the Georgia specific evaluation system]: These are the official observation criteria which administers can use as a rubric when observing a teacher.