Sidebar Modeling
Modeling is a powerful coaching tool, and we can get even more bang for our buck when we are intentional about it. If possible, take the opportunity to observe a bit as you begin a coaching cycle. Watching the teaching and learning in a classroom usually reveals aspects of instruction that can be improved, even if the teacher is an experienced expert. There is just so much going on that it’s handy to have an extra pair of eyes and ears on the job! As you launch a coaching cycle, you’ll probably sit down with the teacher and select a learning target for your work together. That will be the main focus, and your initial modeling will center around that goal. However, you may also be able to incorporate other instructional features as sidebars. I talked this week with Sherri, an experienced coach who is working with first-grade-teacher Sarah on pacing. Sarah’s internal teaching clock is not yet well-developed, so she often ends up with too much or not enough tim...