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How to Prepare for a Psychology Lesson Observation: Drop-In Tips, Templates & Examples

Lesson drop-ins can feel daunting — especially when teaching a complex subject like AQA A-Level Psychology. But with the right approach, they can showcase your strengths, student progress, and evidence-informed teaching practices.

Whether you’re facing a formal observation, a SLT walk-through, or a casual psychology lesson drop-in, this guide will help you feel confident and prepared. You’ll also get access to a printable observation template and a proven system to track progress live.

What Is a Psychology Lesson Drop-In?

A lesson drop-in is a short, informal observation — often lasting 10–20 minutes — where a line manager, subject lead, or SLT member observes a “snapshot” of your teaching.

They’ll usually look for:

  • Clear learning intentions

  • Student engagement

  • Evidence of progress

  • Use of effective pedagogy

  • Classroom routines

What Do Observers Look for in A-Level Psychology?

Because psychology is concept-heavy, observers are often interested in:

  • How complex ideas (e.g. Bowlby’s theory, skewed distributions) are scaffolded

  • How students recall and apply previous learning

  • How feedback is used to support retention

  • How AO1, AO2, and AO3 skills are embedded in tasks

Quick Checklist for a Successful Psychology Lesson Drop-In

Here’s how to prepare:

1. Have a Learning Objective Clearly Visible

  • Use your PowerPoint, whiteboard, or printed handouts

  • Refer to the AQA Psychology specification directly

  • Example: “To evaluate the learning theory of attachment using AO3 skills”

2. Start with Retrieval Practice (REK Task)

  • Begin with a low-stakes quiz or memory challenge

  • Use your Mastery Workbook or a printed Challenge Card

  • Have students write directly in their workbooks or on whiteboards

Get the Attachment Mastery Workbook & Tracker Pack

3. Show Live Feedback in Action

  • Use green pen reflection time (a requirement in many schools)

  • Cold call students to discuss answers

  • Use your Mastery Monitoring Sheet to tick off progress

4. Demonstrate Student Progress

  • Have books/workbooks on desks

  • Use second-attempt responses from previous retrieval tasks

  • Observers love to see progress over time — and your tracking sheets provide this instantly

Free Lesson Observation Template: Lesson Intentions & Impact

Want to plan with clarity or reflect on your lesson delivery with purpose?

The Lesson Intentions & Impact template is a printable tool designed to help you (or those you support) outline a purposeful, evidence-informed lesson. It’s perfect for teachers preparing for drop-ins or mentors supporting professional development.

This free download includes space to log:

  • Lesson Focus & Learning Outcome

  • EEF Strategy Used

  • Retrieval Task Description

  • Live Feedback Strategy

  • Evidence of Progress Observed

Download the Lesson Intentions & Impact Template (Free PDF)

Whether you're tracking your own progress or helping others refine their pedagogy, this tool is a must-have for any AQA Psychology classroom.

FAQs

Q: What’s the best task to set during a psychology drop-in?
Use a retrieval-based challenge question linked to a past topic (e.g. “Explain the difference between classical and operant conditioning”).

Q: Do I need to show written progress during the drop-in?
Not always, but it's recommended. A second-attempt retrieval activity shows evidence of progress over time.

Q: What if the drop-in is unannounced?
Have a system in place (like keeping Mastery Workbooks in trays) so students are always ready to showcase their learning.

Final Thoughts 

Lesson observations don’t have to be stressful — especially when you’re backed by pedagogy, planning, and progress tracking.

Use Yum Yum Mama’s ready-made psychology tools to save planning time, impress observers, and support every student.

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