Observation and comments on literacy lesson taught by Allison Archer, 11/28 Observations Tells students she is happy they

y used evidence in creating list of character traits to describe Mr. Kangaroo Laughs with students Asks students for their personal connections Asks students what words they could use to make their understanding more sophisticated Does a think aloud with students Suggests that using foolish is a more sophisticated word Continues with think aloud, reads enthusiastically All students appear to be listening intently Students want to comment on her think aloud questions Lets them know she will need their help, verbally appreciates their enthusiasm Redirects student who focuses attention on recording camera Asks students to define connection Guides students with questions about how they can find evidence Students read silently Allison walks around the table One student finishes early, nudges partner, you done? Allison notices student after several moments and assigned further directions Starts quietly giving students instruction on how to continue Tells them to focus on their character Looks like one student is mixing up evidence and connection Pulls the group back together to reexplain what the evidence and connection components entail Student suggests that fierce means Comments Great way to exemplify for students how they can learn from one another Seems like they have a great rapport, on the whole students seem happy and relaxed Refers to some words as normal. I am not sure if this word fully expresses what were asking for in this lesson. Maybe general would be a more accurate word to use?

Some students are raising their hands much more frequently than others. Blond girl and boy on far left do not participate as much. Great positive reinforcement, validating for students quick and effective The purpose of each section on the graphic organizer might have to be explained beforehand tomorrow. There is some persisting confusion. In use, maybe connection is a little confusing? Should these instructions be posted or given prior to activity?

Perhaps a longer guided practice section would serve to clear up some of their misunderstandings Would a thesaurus or access to online

scared Allison reminds them that they can work together but that theyre writing about different characters Students are utilizing some underlining in their reading, though not all of them Allison wraps up Asks them to write their names on their graphic organizers Most people have only written about one character trait

dictionary be useful?