Candidate Assessment of Performance (CAP): Observation Form

Focus Elements:
CAP Observation Form: Announced Observation #1
Pre-Observation Conference

Observation Details
Time
3/24/17 Lindsey Polizzotti 8:50-9:50AM
(start/end):
Topic: Color Variation in Rock Pocket Mouse Population
Content Topic/Lesson
Objective: To reinforce concepts of adaptation,
Objective:
variation, and natural selection
X Whole Group Small Group One-on-One Other

Active Evidence Collection occurred during the observation and is synthesized and
categorized below.

Eleme
Evidence**
nt*
Well Structured Lesson: Dr. Polizzotti reviewed the objectives of the
lesson at the beginning of the class. This well-structured lesson included
discussion, video and an activity. This activity involved using the
information from the video to create a time-line demonstrating the color
1.A.4* changes of the rock pocket mouse. The students were given class time in
groups of four to begin assignment that was to create a graph showing
their findings. During this time, Dr. Polizzotti circulated through the
classroom, coaching the students. The objectives were measurable, as
the graphs would be graded as a quiz.
1.B.2

2.A.3

2.B.1
High Expectations: In this lesson. Dr. Polizzotti led a discussion about the
difference between mutation and random selection. The students were
encouraged to think of earlier lessons that discussed traits and mutation
and natural selection. When describing the assignment Dr. Polizzotti was
2.D.2*
specific about the expectations and verbally supported students as they
worked. i.e. I like your reasoning for that. or What do you think is the
cause? Overall she demonstrated high expectations of the students for
this lesson.
4.A.1
 Candidate Assessment of Performance (CAP): Observation Form

Focused Feedback
This lesson was impressive because Dr. Polizzotti used
Reinforcement
multiple strategies to teach this lesson. In addition, it was
Area/Action:
clear that she is aware of individual students ability to stay
(strengths)
on task and utilize the material.
Refinement
Area/Action:
(areas for
improvement)
 Candidate Assessment of Performance (CAP): Observation Forms

* Observations must collect and document evidence for at least the focus elements. Focus
elements are highlighted.
** Evidence included is indicative of performance relative to each element. It may include
evidence that demonstrates one or more of the dimensions (quality, consistency, scope) of
an element are being met or that performance is not yet at the expected threshold.