In order to know the children well, to now the progress and the problems of each child and be able to help them in the class, the teacher needs some aid to her memory.She should Keep anecdotal notes on each child:What activities he does and does not join, who plays and talks with, whether he shares and cooperates, if he is healthy etc..
For this purpose, a regular exercise notebook can be used.
- Write each child’s name at the top of a left-hand page, leaving the right -handed page blank.This gives two pages for writing notes on a particular child.
- Keep the names in alphabetical order, for easier reference.
- When the two pages are filled, start the alphabetical listing again where there are empty pages in the back of the book , or use a new book.
Every Day 4 to 5 children should be observed preferably in the class while the children are working or immediately after the class.During Child-Directed Activities in particular, it is perfectly possible to keep notebook and pen in hand while walking from one group to another and talking with children.
They may ask what you are writing,in which case tell the truth, but generally they will not pay much attention.If a teacher observes 4 or 5 children each, then in two weeks it is not difficult to observe and record the activities of 30 children.
The observation should be jotted down in very short phrases, along with the date and time.
It is important to look over these notes from time to time.Piecing together all these notes on one child gives a total picture of that child as an individual.It also gives a sound basis for comparison with other children in the group and with the developmental norms for that age.The teacher can see patterns of behaviour and can relate these to what she knows of the family background.It is very useful in talking with parents or giving reports, since the teacher then has very concrete points to which she can refer
