Lesson 6: Free Play Observation, Lesson Plan and Implementation

Attention

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this lesson's material, students will be able

  • Complete the use of the anecdotal record observation technique
  • Use the anecdotal record to inform lesson planning
  • Implement lesson plan that was created based on anecdotal record findings
  • Reflect upon observation as a technique to gather data and improve practice
  • Explain the importance of play in early care settings

Teaching

Plan ahead to observe free play time in your site.  From using an anecdotal method, you will observe free play time and use your observations to create a lesson plan.  Your lesson plan will be implemented within that week so be sure to plan ahead. 

Why is play so important?  Play has been a hot topic for many years in the early care and education field.  Some believe it is a vital tool in the development of children while others believe it is a waste of time and only hinders the children from keeping on task with their academics.  Read the following article to understand the importance of play and decide why and what part of dramatic play you will observe.

Play - ten power boosts

Anecdotal records are short, factual, narrative descriptions of child behaviors and skills.  They should OBJECTIVE and only a few sentences long.  A lot of early childhood programs use this technique for observation taking because it is quick allows teachers to track progress.  It also provides concrete evidence (if objective) for assessment and discussions with families.  Please see the tip sheet and provided examples for further information to assist you with your assignment.

Anecdotal records teacher tips

Three anecdotal examples

Assessment

Lesson 6 Assignement

You will be using the Anecdotal Form and the Lesson Plan Form for this assignment.

  1. Decide why you are observing free play time (aside from its required in this course).  What is the objective?
    1. What are you hoping to gain from the observation? 
    2. Will you be observing one child for the entire free play activity or ALL children during free play time?
  2. Choose a time that best works for you and the site to observe free play.
  3. Use the ANECDOTAL FORM provided to complete the observation

Planning

  1. In the comments section of the ANECDOTAL FORM write your analysis or interpretation of the observations
    1. What is the observation telling you?  How does this relate to your lesson plan?
  2. Create a lesson plan using the LESSON PLAN FORM (do only the first two sections). 
    1. Assure this is related to your observation and observation objective.
    2. Review the LESSON PLAN RUBRIC as you put your Lesson Plan together.

Implementation

  1. Implement your activity
  2. Complete self-assessment portion of the planning form. The third section in the LESSON PLAN FOR

Possible Class Discussion

HOT TOPIC - It is not play versus learning, but play and learning

Discuss where you stand on play vs/and learning.  Why do you believe that way and how have your thoughts on the topic evolved?