An observation chart is a tool that can support teacher observations of students, as it keeps track of the Explore phase. It enables you to go back and check on students who have struggled or extend students who are doing well.
Below is one example of an observation chart, which includes:
- the powerful mathematical ideas being explored.
- strategies that you have anticipated students will use.
- specific, prepared questions addressing the anticipated solutions, which frees you up to observe the students’ mathematical thinking rather than having to think up questions.
- This gives you headspace to come up with on-the-spot questions when faced with unexpected solution strategies.
- questions to assess and advance student thinking.
- It may be helpful to keep track of the questions you ask specific students or groups, so that when you return to them you know what they are focusing on.
- the representations, logic and gestures students use.
- These can reveal a great deal about student mathematical thinking and understanding.
- examples of student thinking, which can be used to help select and sequence strategies for the whole class discussion.
- This can also inform subsequent planning and what teaching students may need from this point.
Discuss with your colleagues:
- How do you observe your students when they are engaged in mathematical activity? Do you record what you observe?
- How would you use this tool in your class? What would you change/keep the same?
References
Smith, M. S. and Stein, M.K. (2018). 5 Practices for Orchestrating Productive Mathematics Discussions. National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.