Observations

This is a link to a private blog.

I was lucky enough to observe two blocks of Socials 11C in which the classes were participating in a "Chalk Talk" experience based on elements of war. By elevating the importance of this experience and demanding that the class respect each others thoughts, this allowed all members of the class to participate in a silent conversation. This conversation revealed many, many complex elements and opinions on war. The entire block was spent in silence writing, observing, and reflecting. This techniques could be used in any class as a way to get everyone involved in the discussion, not just the vocal members of the class. It really revealed some excellent critical thinking and analytical response theory on the part of many students and generated discussion after the class. I observed many students taking pictures of their work at the end of the class using their cell phones.

Barry

thoughts as an instructor being observed: was surprisingly nervous to have someone come watch me teach, but quickly fell into my normal routine and banter. it's a compliment to think that someone wants to observe what I do. even more gratifying when they said they saw something that they wanted to do in their class. **//griff//**

I had an opportunity to watch an oral test being conducted in an English 12 class. While the concept intrigued me, I was a bit sceptical about how I could incorporate a technique so outside my comfort zone into my assessment routine. Boy was I wrong! The in-depth discussion and level of engagement exhibited by the vast majority of the class was inspiring to see, and I have revamped my approach to my next novel to facilitate this new tool. I can't wait to try it next Monday. I was also able to watch an A/B partner talk activity in action in an English 10 class. I found many similarities between this approach and the small group discussion method I curently use, but also some interesting differences that I will try to incorporate in the future. I think for me, this activity would work best with grade 9's; however, I've been assured it's just as useful in the higher grades and so will try to find time to watch this process again at the grade 11 level. Based on your description , Barry, I would love to see "chalk talk" in action, if anyone is planning on doing it again. Afternoon blocks on Mondays and Wednesdays work best for me :)

Lisa

Caroline Baldwin’s Lesson, observed by David Newell May 4, 2011 Caroline’s Lesson was an enriching experience for me, both professionally and personally. The lesson gave me calm and strength as it not only offered me insight into my own teaching techniques, but ideas on how to bolster up my lessons. And a science guy got to do MacBeth! The wide variety of activities that I witnessed in just 1 hour and 20 minutes (English grammar, listening to a tape, watching a film, practicing staging with a mini stage and multiple colours of jelly players (later to be consumed) not only inspired me, but was obviously nothing but pure joy for the students as they were fully engaged. Thank you Caroline! You have a wonderful way with students.