How long should the observation last?
In elementary classrooms or other settings where lessons are usually shorter in duration, the observation should be a minimum of thirty (30) minutes, even if two or more different lessons take place in that time. In schools where there are designated class periods (middle or high schools) the assessor is to observe for the entire class period. When the class schedule consists of ninety (90) minute blocks, the teacher should be prepared to discuss the sequence of activities with the assessor during the informal conference. After the discussion, a decision to observe the block for fifty (50) minutes rather than ninety (90) minutes may be made.
