Observation tasks are activities that TESL practicum students can use to focus their attention on specific aspects of a classroom. They can help students to learn from experienced teachers and reflect on their own teaching practices. Here are some examples of observation tasks that TESL practicum students can use while observing a classroom:
- Classroom layout and environment: Observe how the teacher arranges the furniture, the seating arrangements, the use of space, the lighting, the noise level, the display of materials and resources, etc. How do these factors affect the learning atmosphere and the interaction between the teacher and the students?
- Lesson objectives and outcomes: Observe how the teacher states the lesson objectives and outcomes at the beginning of the lesson, how they relate to the curriculum standards and the students’ needs and interests, how they are assessed throughout and at the end of the lesson, etc. How do these factors affect the clarity and coherence of the lesson?
- Teaching methods and strategies: Observe how the teacher uses different methods and strategies to present the content, to engage the students, to check their understanding, to provide feedback, to differentiate instruction, to manage classroom behaviour, etc. How do these factors affect the effectiveness and appropriateness of the teaching?
- Student participation and learning: Observe how the students participate in the lesson, how they interact with the teacher and with each other, how they demonstrate their learning, how they respond to feedback, how they show interest and motivation, etc. How do these factors affect the quality and depth of the learning?
- Personal reflection: Observe how you feel and think while observing the lesson, what you learn from the teacher and from the students, what you find challenging or inspiring, what you would like to try or improve in your own teaching, etc. How do these factors affect your professional development as a TESL teacher?