In my basement are 5 large boxes of files from 10 years of teaching. It used to be more, but I have been slowly condensing the boxes over the last 4 years. I was amazed to discover some old observation feedback from my first year at Dunwoody HS. It was fascinating to compare how I received feedback then as a teacher to how I capture and deliver feedback now as an administrator, especially as it relates to instructional rounds (#IRFEDU).
Date: April 13, 2000
Focus of Lesson: Socialism/Capitalism
Teaching Task I: Provides Instruction
Your students participated in the classroom discussions as well as the homework review. The student responses indicated the appropriate instructional level. By discussing genetics concepts of historical value and relating those to genetics of today (cloning) you built for the transfer of knowledge.
Teaching Task II: Assesses and Encourages Student Progress
By using a combination of instructional activities, classroom debate between socialism and capitalism and the homework review allowed you to monitor progress as well as to promote engagement.
Teaching Task III: Manages the Learning Environment
I appreciate the importance you place on room organization and cleanliness. Please request that the custodial staff remove any extra and unnecessary furniture. (Stacked desks, brown computer station) Your students demonstrated appropriate behavior and remained on task.
Date: January 20, 2000
Focus of Lesson: Renaissance and Reformation
Teaching Task I: Provides Instruction
Your teaching style encourages concept teaching rather than strictly factual teaching. You developed the concept by sharing facts (dates), opinions (politicians), and drawing conclusions.
Teaching Task II: Assesses and Encourages Student Progress
As you introduced the Renaissance you promoted engagement by introducing the “characters” – Michelangelo, Martin Luther, and Gutenberg. As you introduced new topics you reminded students of first semester concepts and how they were important with today’s discussion (ex: Renaissance humanities)
Teaching Task III: Manages the Learning Environment
As you encouraged students to define “humanism” you reminded students not to burst out. Your class is attractive. If the stacked desks are not needed please ask Mr. Davidson to have them removed. All learners were involved in note taking and demonstrated appropriate behavior.
Date: April 13, 2000
Annual Evaluation Summary Report
Mr. Houston uses a variety of instructional techniques which results in a high level of student interest and involvement. I appreciate that he values every instructional moment and teaches bell to bell. Mr. Houston will continue to grow and develop as a master teacher.
Mr. Houston fulfills all duties and responsibilities assigned to him. He is an asset to Dunwoody High School and the social studies department.