Procedure

The way that you manage this activity will depend to a large extent on the possibilities that are open to you to arrange observation of classes. If possible, arrange for participants to observe lower-level (B1 or below) classes. The most likely scenarios are (1) more than one observer observing the same lesson, (2) observers observe different lessons. Live observation is usually much more interesting than recorded classes on video, but the latter have the advantage of allowing everyone in the group to refer to the same lesson.

• 1 Distribute the relevant observation task and check that everyone understands what is required. If necessary, remind participants of the etiquette of observing other teachers’ classes.

• 2 After the observations, participants work in pairs or small groups and compare their notes to Parts 1, 2 and 3 of the observation tasks.

• 3 Bring the whole group together for discussion of part 4 of the task.

Notes

• 1 This activity can be used on teacher training or teacher development programmes in conjunction with Activities 1, A seminar for teacher training courses (pre-service), and 2, A seminar for teacher development courses (in-service).

• 2 The observation tasks can also be used to reflect on one's own teaching.