The Top 25 Things Teachers Should Avoid During an Unannounced Classroom Observation

Classroom observations are a crucial tool used by administrators and instructional coaches to assess a teacher’s effectiveness, classroom management, and overall impact on student learning. While they can be scheduled, unannounced classroom observations often provide a more genuine insight into a teacher’s day-to-day instruction. For many educators, these surprise visits can cause stress. However, by avoiding common pitfalls, teachers can handle these observations with confidence. Here are the top 25 things to avoid during a classroom observation to ensure you’re presenting your best self.

 1. Panic or Show Visible Anxiety

A key to surviving an unannounced classroom observation is maintaining composure. Even if you feel surprised, showing visible anxiety can affect your teaching flow and student engagement. Remain calm, act naturally, and focus on your lesson as planned.

 2. Change the Lesson Midway

If an observer walks in unexpectedly, resist the temptation to change your lesson plan. Altering the lesson to impress the observer can disrupt your students’ understanding and throw off the class flow. Stick to your original plan.

 3. Ignore the Observer

While it’s important to stay focused on your students during a classroom observation, acknowledging the observer is also crucial. A simple nod or smile is enough. Ignoring them entirely can come across as unprofessional.

 4. Overly Focus on the Observer

On the other hand, don’t become too focused on the observer. Constantly glancing at them or seeking their approval during a classroom observation can distract both you and your students from the lesson.

 5. Criticize or Blame Students

One of the worst things a teacher can do during a classroom observation is to criticize or blame students for any challenges in the classroom. Handle any student issues calmly, focusing on solutions rather than assigning blame.

 6. Lose Control of Classroom Management

Maintaining strong classroom management is key to a successful classroom observation. Don’t let student behavior spiral out of control. Stay consistent with your classroom rules and procedures, as observers will look for effective behavior management.

 7. Ignore Student Misbehavior

Don’t ignore misbehavior just because an observer is present. Address disruptions as you normally would, calmly and effectively. Observers are interested in how you handle real-time challenges during the classroom observation.

 8. Wing the Lesson

If you weren’t fully prepared for the day’s lesson, don’t attempt to improvise. Observers are looking for structure and clarity in your teaching. Stick to your objectives and provide clear instruction, even if the lesson isn’t going exactly as planned.

 9. Read from a Script

During a classroom observation, avoid reading directly from a script or lesson plan. This makes the lesson feel robotic and disengaging. Instead, focus on interacting with students and creating a dynamic learning environment.

 10. Over-Explain or Over-Teach

Trying to over-explain every concept to impress the observer can backfire, making your lesson drag. Keep your teaching concise and aligned with your learning objectives.

 11. Ignore Differentiated Instruction

One of the most important aspects of a successful classroom observation is showing that you can differentiate your instruction. Avoid teaching to just one type of learner. Use varied strategies to address different learning styles.

 12. Skip Formative Assessments

Don’t neglect formative assessments during a classroom observation. Quick checks for understanding, such as asking questions or giving brief activities, demonstrate that you are monitoring student progress.

 13. Allow Off-Task Behavior

During a classroom observation, ensure that all students are on task. If students are distracted, gently refocus them on the lesson. Observers want to see that students are engaged and following along.

 14. Rush Through the Lesson

Avoid rushing to finish your lesson when the observer enters the room. Stick to your planned pace, ensuring that students have time to absorb the material.

 15. Ignore Student Questions

Student questions are opportunities to engage and clarify concepts. Avoid ignoring or brushing off questions during a classroom observation. Take the time to respond thoughtfully and encourage further inquiry.

 16. Be Disorganized

Disorganization can quickly become apparent during a classroom observation. Avoid fumbling through papers or unprepared lesson materials. Ensure that everything you need for the lesson is ready and accessible.

 17. Ignore Technology Problems

If technology fails during a classroom observation, don’t let it throw off your entire lesson. Have a backup plan ready, and move on smoothly if technical issues arise.

 18. Use Monotonous Tone

Maintaining a lively and engaging tone is crucial during a classroom observation. Avoid speaking in a flat or monotonous voice, as this can cause students to lose interest.

 19. Focus Only on “Star” Students

Don’t only engage with high-performing students during a classroom observation. Observers want to see that you are interacting with all students, including those who may struggle or are less vocal in class.

 20. Fail to Give Clear Instructions

Clear and concise instructions are key to ensuring students know what to do. Avoid being vague during a classroom observation. Make sure students understand the activities or tasks before they begin.

 21. Ignore the Learning Objectives

Start your lesson by clearly stating the learning objectives. Observers are looking to see if students know what they are working toward. Avoid diving into activities without clarifying the goals of the lesson.

 22. Neglect Positive Reinforcement

Providing positive feedback is important for classroom morale. Don’t forget to recognize and praise good behavior or work during a classroom observation. It shows observers that you create a supportive learning environment.

 23. Overuse Teacher-Centered Instruction

Avoid relying solely on lectures or teacher-centered instruction during a classroom observation. Incorporate student-centered activities, such as group work or discussions, to foster engagement and collaboration.

 24. Fail to Address Equity and Inclusion

Equity and inclusion are essential in any classroom. Avoid overlooking diverse student needs or cultural differences during a classroom observation. Foster an environment where all students feel valued and included.

 25. End the Lesson Abruptly

Finally, don’t end the lesson abruptly without summarizing key points or providing closure. During a classroom observation, it’s important to tie everything together with a concluding statement or review to ensure students leave with a clear understanding of the lesson.

 Conclusion

Handling an unannounced classroom observation with grace and confidence can make a lasting positive impression on the observer. By avoiding these 25 common mistakes, teachers can ensure they present their best teaching practices, engage students effectively, and maintain a well-managed classroom environment. The key is to stay calm, focused, and consistent in your teaching, knowing that a classroom observation is just another opportunity to showcase your skills and foster student growth.