TECA 1311
Observation of Head Start, Pre-K, or Kindergarten
Prior to your site visit, read pages 97-135 in The Developmentally Appropriate Practice
Handbook (for children ages 3-5 years). The focus of this observation will be
environment and scheduling, creating a caring community of learners, and constructing
appropriate curriculum. (Submit 1 Pre-K or Head Start and 1 Kindergarten
summary.)
I.
Environment and Scheduling
A. Describe examples of precautions the teacher takes to make the environment safe
and clean for children:
B. Record the daily schedule. Comment on whether there is a balance of quiet and
active choices, whether there is adequate time for student exploration, and whether
transitions are handled effectively (e.g., moving from one activity to another, such
as going from circle to work stations).
C. Comment on the general level of contentment of the students. Cite examples from
your visit that lead you to believe that that the children are enjoying the learning
environment.
II.
Creating a Caring Community of Learners
A. Cite examples of positive relationships between the children and adults in the
classroom.
B. Describe examples of opportunities the children have to make friends and to
positively interact with peers in the learning environment (indoors or outdoors).
III.
Constructing Appropriate Curriculum
A. Describe the curriculum areas you observed. Are subject areas inter-related or
separated?
B. Describe the types of activities the teacher plans for language arts and writing
(literacy) that you observed.
C. Describe the types of activities the teacher plans for math (patterns, numeration,
shapes, etc.). Comment on the use of manipulative materials.
D. Do the children have opportunities to develop gross or fine motor skills? In what
ways?
E. How are social studies and science included in the activity choices for children?
F. Does the curriculum seem to be at an appropriate level for the understanding of the
students (neither too easy nor too difficult)? Cite examples from your visit to
justify your judgment.