Report from the Field – Bradley Donaldson

Hi Ben,

So like all other teachers in New York City, and New York state, I got observed under the Danielson rubric. And, it went well! I wasn’t worried about the classroom environment sections because that’s all about procedures and having a pleasant classroom. But I was worried about instruction. Well, my principal loved my TPRS lesson.

We were doing PQA when she came in for a mini observation, and she loved that the students were engaged, answering questions (that showed me gauging their understanding) and then completing a timed writing that I could assess individually. She said communication to students was on par too because it showed that I expected everyone to participate and complete the work.

I’m breathing a sigh of relief now, so hopefully other teachers who are being evaluated on this rubric will feel the same way. Additionally, my principal is sensible and I did have a talk with her about what she might see and how I think it applies. She gets the work we do as language teachers, and I’m glad to have her.

Best,

Bradley