The Observation Protocol for Academic Literacies: A Tool for Building Expertise for Teachers of English Learners

The Observation Protocol for Academic Literacies (OPAL) is a validated observation instrument that helps teachers of English Learners develop their pedagogic expertise. It can be used in teacher preparation programs, pre-K-12 classroom contexts, and school districts to collect classroom-based evidence and inform the implementation and refinement of English Learner programs.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 16 January 2024
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

This comprehensive book offers a valuable tool for enhancing the pedagogic expertise of teachers working with English Learners in US schools. Drawing upon sociocultural and second language teaching and learning theories, the Observation Protocol for Academic Literacies (OPAL) has a wide range of applications across teacher preparation programs, pre-K-12 classroom settings, and school districts. By guiding the reader through the process of utilizing OPAL with real classroom observations presented in vignettes, the book aims to build confidence and reliability in scoring evidence based on research-informed practices.

Moreover, the book showcases its non-evaluative applications in conducting research, supporting teachers, and identifying areas of strength and weakness in their professional development. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers and policymakers seeking to gather classroom-based evidence to inform the implementation and refinement of English Learner programs.

Through its systematic approach and practical examples, this book empowers educators to better understand and meet the unique needs of English Learners, promoting effective teaching and learning outcomes.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800419018