Classroom observations are impactful when the lens of the observation and the resulting feedback are aligned to IM curriculum, equitable instructional practices, and grade-level content. Instructional leaders and teachers should have opportunities to observe instruction to learn from and with each other.
“There is value in principals attending mathematics-specific professional development with the coaches who serve their schools.”
~ Systems for Instructional Improvement, p. 188
"School leaders should collaborate regularly with accomplished coaches and district math specialists to establish goals and design supports for improving instruction."
~ Systems for Instructional Improvement, p. 190
A. Attend IM Certified® Professional Learning™ (Observing in a Problem-Based Classroom) with the school's instructional coach.
B. Identify which indicators you will monitor in the IMplementation Reflection Tool (IRT).
Examine Section C of the IRT.
Create a copy of the IRT C Note Catcher.
Remove the indicators that were not selected for this data cycle.
Practice observing a classroom using the selected indicators by viewing an example IM Math lesson.
C. Determine a schedule for observing classrooms with the instructional coach.
D. Meet with teachers to discuss what selected indicators look like and sound like so they can intentionally plan with the indicators in mind.
It is "important for school leaders to observe instruction regularly in order to have a presence in and learn what is going on in classrooms, as this should enable them to work more effectively with mathematics specialists or coaches."
~ Systems for Instructional Improvement, p. 190
"Given that teachers require sustained support if they are to develop ambitious and equitable instructional practices, it is essential that principals collaborate with content experts . . . . These ongoing collaborations might support principals' learning while simultaneously legitimizing and supporting the work of those with relevant expertise."
~ Systems for Instructional Improvement, p. 190
A. Observe classrooms and collect data using the selected indicators.
Observers should read the IM Math lesson prior to the observation and reference the teacher materials throughout the lesson. It is most useful to observe an entire lesson.
B. Discuss the observations, including evidence of each selected indicator.
C. Decide what strengths and opportunities to share with the teacher.
D. Consider how you might share evidence of success with your instructional staff, including evidence of early implementation success.
E. Determine how the information gained from observations will help inform the PL plan.
It may be helpful to also collect teacher self-assessment data on the focus indicators.
The IMplementation Reflection Tool, Section C
IRT C Note Catcher (You will be prompted to make a copy.)
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