Hey there new teacher! Do you have an evaluation or observation coming up? Don’t worry. You have got this. We have all been there and have gone through the same struggle. However, I want to help you feel prepared. So I have put together some information to help you. Think of this as a teacher performance evaluation checklist.
Teacher Performance Evaluation Checklist
Are you wondering what the big ticket items are during an evaluation? I can tell you from experience that the number one thing is student engagement. Are your students learning? Do they seem engaged in the lesson or are they playing, staring into space, or clueless about what is going on? Of course, there is more to a new teacher evaluation than that but here is a quick check.
You need a Routine!
- Introduction with real-world connection
- Technology
- Engaging Lesson
- Student-led Activities/Check for Understanding
- Independent Practice/Assessment
- Closure
Don’t let his list freak you out. This may seem like a lot to put together for a first year teacher. I have created a FREE short workbook with tips on planning out these pieces of your evaluation. You can snag this workbook here.
More on Routines and Procedures
These really start from day one but it is never too late to implement some and get your classroom management on track. If you are interested in more information on routines and procedures then you can see this blog post!
Lastly, the more you prepare, the less you will worry. Take some time to schedule out your lesson and don’t try anyhing BRAND NEW just because you think it will boost your evaluation. Make sure you do some practice lessons with the same exact format you plan on trying.
Accepting Feedback
I know it’s hard to always hear that you could have done something better. That is definitely one of the discouraging parts about this. However, look at this as OPPORTUNITY to grow. I always want to better myself and teaching practices. Just think of this as “help” versus “I caught you.” Administrators are NEVER trying to “catch you” messing up. Most of them have been in our shoes. Accept the feedback, make the changes, and shut the door and teach your heart out! The kids deserve it.
