Observation #2

This was an Algebra I class with, presumably, an experienced teacher. She was 35-40 years old and had a thick eastern European accent. She really didn’t seem like a bad teacher but from what I observed, she struggles. From my one time observation I would say that because she is an authoritarian, students show very little respect and take no heed of any directive. The students were blatant with their disregard for her authority.

10:36 AM - Bell Rings. Class Begins.

She has a typical lesson plan: Objectives on the board and a warm-up.

Class on algebraic inequalities.

Many students not paying attention to her directions. One student is having a conversation on a cell phone.

2 students verbally disrespecting her after they arrived late. She calls security to remove them from the class.

10:43 – Checking homework.

When she answers questions, she has a tone of frustration which causes tension.

10:53 – Done checking homework.

Her accent makes it very difficult for me to understand her. Imagine what the students feel like.

When she calls on a student to give an answer, she usually finishes the answer. She seems to be rushing.

Reflection
It is important for students to reason through an problem and give their answer. If it is right try to highlight how they achieved it. If it is wrong either allow another student to assist or model the answer for them. This allows them to see how they should answer your questions.

11:05 – Students calm down. 3 students with their heads down. It seems that she is so boring that students no longer even have the energy to misbehave.

11:29 – Class ends.