2nd Observation-Writing

                                                                                                                                                            

Lesson Topic: Nouns vs. Verbs-Writing Lesson

I taught a lesson about the different types of nouns and how nouns are different from verbs.  The pre-assessment for the lesson was identifying nouns versus verbs.  I gave each student seven index cards with various verbs, proper nouns, and common nouns.  Each student was then asked to deposit each of their index cards in labeled brown lunch baggies.  We then went over if the index cards in the bags were correct.  For the mini-lesson, I offered definitions of verbs, common nouns, and proper nouns.  Students also offered examples of each type.  The students then completed a noun versus verb worksheet, and we went over the answers as a class.  Lastly, the students were given five blank sticky notes and were asked to create their own examples of verbs, proper nouns, and common nouns.  After completing this exercise, the sticky notes were given to another student where they had to distinguish among verbs, proper nouns, and common nouns.  This was done on the white board.  A discussion followed.                                                     

Date Taught: Monday, July 20, 2015

What went well: I think that students understood the difference between a proper noun and common noun very well.  They even provided examples very willingly without much prodding.  There was great participation throughout the lesson, and it appeared that the students were pretty engaged.  I am glad that I added kinesthetic activities during the lesson in order to keep engagement up.  Two out of the five students present earned a 100% on the lesson closure; whereas the other three students scored an 80% on the lesson closure.  Since the goal was for 80% accuracy, all five students met this goal. 

What did not go as planned: There were two students who were absent, so I had to give students more index cards than originally intended.  Some of my students also seemed a little riled up, probably because we had just gotten back from our break.  Additionally, some students seemed a little confused when we changed gears from the different types of nouns to distinguishing nouns from verbs.  As a result of my co-teacher’s redirection, students were able to get back on track. 

How to change for subsequent lessons: I hope to incorporate even more kinesthetic strategies to keep my students engaged in subsequent lessons.  I also need to do a better job of arranging and organizing my lessons in order to decrease the likelihood of student confusion.