How to Ace a Lesson Observation in AQA Psychology: Tips, Questions & Real Examples
Preparing for a lesson observation in AQA Psychology doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right tools, planning strategies, and evidence of learning, you can confidently deliver a lesson that not only showcases student progress but also highlights your subject expertise and teaching pedagogy.
This guide walks you through how to succeed in a psychology lesson observation — whether it’s part of a formal review, department quality assurance, or a simple drop-in.
What Do Observers Look for in AQA Psychology Lessons?
Observers want to see:
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A clear learning objective linked to the AQA specification
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Student engagement and opportunities for retrieval
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Evidence of progress, especially over time
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Opportunities for feedback and challenge
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Use of EEF-backed strategies like spaced practice and modelling
Common Lesson Observation AQA Psychology Questions
Whether you're observed by SLT, a Head of Department, or an external reviewer, you might be asked:
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“How do you ensure students retain key psychological theories?”
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“Where is the evidence of progress in this lesson and across the topic?”
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“How do you challenge your high-attaining students?”
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“How do you support those struggling with AO3?”
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“What AQA command words are embedded into your instruction?”
These questions all relate to quality first teaching — so plan ahead using structured techniques and retrieval-based resources.
Real Example: Psychology Observation Structure
Here’s a structure that works well for AQA Psychology lesson observations:
📍 Starter: REK Task (Recent Existing Knowledge)
Begin with a retrieval challenge question. Use one from your Mastery Workbook (e.g., “Explain two behaviours used to measure attachment”).
Download the Attachment Mastery Workbook
Students complete the question, self-mark using model answers, and use green pen to edit their response.
You track this in your Class Mastery Progress Tracker — a live document showing who attempted the question and their confidence level.
Mid-Lesson: Live Feedback and Cold Calling
Use cold call questioning, paired discussion, or whole-class feedback to address misconceptions. Jot down common errors and re-teach key points using dual coding.
Try our free Dual Coding Template
Plenary: Second Attempt or Reflection
End the lesson with:
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A second attempt at a previously failed question (spaced practice)
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Or a written reflection using the Mastery Checkpoint Sheet
This provides evidence of metacognition and retrieval — two EEF strategies with high impact.
Downloadable Lesson Observation Support Tools
For a polished, prepared observation experience, use these Yum Yum Mama tools:
1. Lesson Intentions & Impact Template (Free)
Plan your lesson outcomes, retrieval task, EEF strategy, feedback and progress — all in one sheet.
Download the free observation planning template
2. Attachment Mastery Workbook & Tracker
Includes 20 challenge cards, model answer PowerPoint, mastery checkpoint sheets, student tracker and teacher overview.
Use AQA Psychology Teaching Resources That Impress
Here’s what to bring to your observation:
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Mastery workbooks on desks
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Model answers printed or shown
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Tracker on clipboard or screen
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Structured reflection sheets
This demonstrates planning, feedback, and progress.
FAQs
Q: What if students are at different stages in the topic?
Use tiered retrieval questions or allow them to choose from several challenge cards in your workbook.
Q: Should I do group work or keep it individual?
Stick to what works best for your class. A mix of independent tasks and questioning usually works well.
Q: Do observations require full marking?
No — live feedback and green pen edits count as marking. Observers want to see that students know how to improve.
Final Thoughts
Lesson observations in AQA Psychology are opportunities — not just assessments. With retrieval practice, feedback strategies, and structured planning, you can turn a drop-in into a showcase of your subject mastery.
Download what you need below to get started:
