Cobb County School District
CLASS Keys Classroom Teacher Observation Form
Teacher’s Name: Proficient Teacher
Class Observed:
Observation:
School Thompson Middle School
Grade 7
Announced or
Date Observed November 1, 2009
Subject Language Arts
Unannounced
Start Time 10:00 a.m. End Time 10:35 a.m.
Curriculum and Planning Standard (CP): The teacher makes decisions about planning that demonstrate a deep understanding of
grade level content knowledge, pedagogy, and GPS or State-approved curriculum implementation by appropriately planning for
what students are expected to know, understand, and be able to do.
CP Standard Elements
CP 1 The teacher uses an organizing framework for instructional planning to support standards-based instruction.
CP 2 The teacher plans instruction that reflects strong knowledge of both content and effective instructional delivery.
CP 3 The teacher plans assessments to measure student progress toward and mastery of the GPS.
CP 4 The teacher plans for appropriate use of differentiation.
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
No
CP Comments: Great lesson plans! Your plans were developed using a framework that supported standards-based instruction. The plans
reflected both strong content knowledge and effective instructional delivery with a variety of differentiated assessments planned to
measure student progress. Expectations for your students’ learning are very apparent in your planning.
Standards-Based Instruction Standard (SBI): The teacher consistently uses research-based practices in the classroom, challenging
all learners to achieve high levels of learning as defined by GPS or State-approved curriculum.
SBI Standard Elements
SBI 1 The teacher effectively communicates learning expectations using both the language of the Standards and
strategies that reflect a standards-based classroom.
Yes
No
SBI 2 The teacher demonstrates research-based practices that engage students in learning.
Yes
No
SBI 3 The teacher consistently demonstrates high expectations for all learners.
Yes
No
SBI 4 The teacher uses accessible technology effectively to enhance student learning.
Yes
No
N/A
SBI 5 The teacher differentiates instruction to meet students’ readiness levels, language proficiency, and interest
Yes
No
SBI 6 The teacher delivers instruction which fosters the development of HOT/Reasoning Skills
Yes
No
SBI Comments: Expectations for high levels of learning were obvious from the start. You used strategies that consistently engaged
students and fostered their development of HOT skills. In addition, you successfully implemented differentiated plans for the group of ESL
students.
Assessment of Student Learning Standard (AL): The teacher uses a balanced variety of assessment techniques that are
systematically implemented, resulting in appropriate interventions that foster continuous improvement for all.
NOTE: One or more assessment strategies should be observed.
AL Standard Elements
AL 1 The teacher uses formative assessment strategies to monitor student progress and to adjust instruction
in order to maximize student achievement on the GPS or State-approved curriculum.
Yes
No
N/A
AL 2 The teacher uses diagnostic assessment strategies to identify individual and class strengths, misconceptions and
areas of weakness and to adjust instruction in order to maximize student achievement on the GPS or State-approved curriculum.
Yes
No
N/A
AL 3 The teacher uses a variety of summative strategies to evaluate student status and to adjust instruction in order to maximize
student achievement on the GPS or State-approved curriculum.
Yes
No
N/A
AL 4 The teacher provides effective and timely commentary/feedback regarding students’ written and oral performances.
Yes
No
AL Comments: A balanced variety of assessments were used; the informal diagnostic assessment utilized at the beginning of the lesson
established the groups and pace for the subsequent activity. Oral responses to students’ questions and comments were insightful,
providing clear feedback for all earners regarding the literary concept in question.
Instructional Environment Standard (IE): The teacher creates a safe, productive, collaborative, and inviting learning environment
that fosters a sense of community and personal responsibility to ensure that students maximize learning.
IE Standard Elements
IE 1 The teacher establishes classroom rules, practices, and procedures that support a positive, productive learning environment.
IE 2 The teacher maximizes instructional time.
IE 3 The teacher fosters a sense of community and belonging by acknowledging diversity, achievements, and
Yes
Yes
No
No
accomplishments of all learners in the classroom.
Yes
No
IE 4 The teacher helps students take responsibility for their own behavior and learning.
Yes
No
IE Comments: You utilized the entire instructional period effectively; instruction began immediately following the opening bell. The
positive environment allowed students to be risk-takers; they seemed to feel “safe” in asking questions and posing solutions to the
author’s dilemma. Short-term group assignments and roles required students to assume responsibility for their learning. It’s obvious that
these students enjoy being in this class! 
Evaluator’s Signature_________________________________________________
Date: ________________
Teacher’s Signature __________________________________________________
Date: _______________
Adopted 4/09