Lesson 6: Free Play Observation, Lesson Plan and Implementation

 

Learning Outcomes

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

  • 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

These Lesson Plans are "Universal" in that they are used for both our face-to-face and Online course offerings. The instructions for the "Discussions" found in this section are for the Online classes only unless otherwise indicated by your Instructor.

Lesson 6 Assignement

Part 1: Observation and Planning

You will be using the Anecdotal Form (pdf) (.doc) and Lesson Plan Form (pdf) (in .docx) for this assignment. Check your Lesson Plan Rubric if you need further guidance

A key component to your Practicum experience is to engage in the process of observing, planning, implementing and reflecting on lessons.

Below you will find instructions on each step of this process. During the First part of this assignment you will first, complete an observation. At the end of the observation in the space provided you will reflect upon your observation using the prompts below. You will then use this observation process to create a lesson plan. You will be using specific forms that we have created to do this.

  • Observation
    • Using the anecdotal form provided, observe children for 20 minutes who are engaged in a free play.
    • In the comments section of the anecdotal recording form, jot down specific examples of what you are observing.
    • From your observation, what do you think the children are interested in or could use more support in? 
    • What activity will you create to support that interest or skill you observed?
  • Planning
    • Create a lesson plan using the lesson plan format provided
      • Assure that the lesson plan is derived from the observation you took!
      • Check with your cooperating teacher and/or instructor to see if it is a good fit for your placement.

Put all of these documents together and submit them to the "Lesson 6 Assignment - Part 1" Drop Box

Part 2: Implementation

You will be using the Reflection Form (pdf) (.docx) in this assignment. Be sure to check the Reflection Form Rubric for futher guidance.

In this second part of the assignment you are expected to actually implement the Lesson Plan you created in the first part.

  • Implement the Lesson Plan
    • Be sure to check with your cooperating teacher on a time and day!
    • Also check with the cooperating teacher to be sure this is a fit for teh curriculum.
    • It is possible that you will be observed (or recorded) during one or all of your lesson plans. Be prepared!
  • Complete reflection/analysis using the format provided.
    • Your reflection should be THOROUGHT.
    • Ask your cooperating teacher for feedback.
    • There are no "wrong answers" when you reflect. You are graded on your ability to reflect and GROW through the process of reflection.

Submit this to the "Lesson 6 Assignment - Part 2" Drop Box

Lesson 6 Discussion

Read chapter 9 in Swinging Pendulums (pages 38-40). Does your practicum site have uniform rules regarding safety concerns? Do all staff memebers consistently carry them out?