Specific markers when observing a language class

Plan

Observe Nhlanhla Phakathi teaching Grade 8.

Focus on observing: 

1. Student behaviour in class, including
2. Work ethic and engagement
3. English home language student in the class

More specific markers:

1. Possible engagement strategies
2. Bringing of correct equipment
3. Writing down important things
4. Noise making and trouble makers
5. Friendships
6. Sleeping students
7. Cold call - response of the class

The lessons

Day 1: 

Introduce fairytales in general

Start in a circle (Link to relationship with grandmothers. Grandmothers traditionally tell fairytales, not mothers. Fairytales traditionally told in a circle setting. Link to differences in generations now days. Students aren’t as close to their grandparents anymore)

Discuss definition of a fairytale

• Verbal definition (link to the traditionally verbal nature of fairytales)
• Then go to write definition in their book once they can repeat it verbally

Discuss 4 types of fairytale (people, animals, people and animals, nature)

• Verbally initially
• Then go and write down the 4 types once they can repeat verbally 

Day 2:

Example of a fairytale

Discuss in groups

Identify main characters – To justify the “type” of fairytale