Observations


Observations can create so much stress! An observation is when the principal enters your classroom and sits in the back in order to critique your teaching performance. You usually have a week's notice so that you can prepare a fabulous lesson and practice it! Some teachers just do what they normally do every day, but others go all out and create a once in a lifetime lesson. 

I know teachers with years of experience that still get nervous during an observation. I always did too. I guess it's just tough knowing that someone is watching you and going to criticize or hopefully enjoy your teaching. You can be the most confident teacher in the world but when you are being observed, it can be nerve-racking. 

Even worse than the observation is the meeting afterwards when the principal goes over your performance. For me, most observations were pretty good. I was prepared and knew what I was doing. But I was always a little wary of that meeting. One principal even videotaped the observation and made you watch it with her.... brutal! 

Observations are a part of teaching, and I get it. The principal needs to know that you know what you are doing. I wish it could be easier. At least, there is no more videotaping!

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