Early Literacy Observation Form

The Early Literacy Observation Form supports educator preparation supervisors to observe and provide high-quality feedback to teacher candidates on their practice in evidence-based early literacy as outlined in the Mass Literacy Guide and in alignment with the Early Literacy Program Approval Criteria and 2024 CAP Guidelines. By providing specific "Look Fors" to guide observations and feedback, this tool is a key component of Massachusetts' mission to ensure that all teacher candidates in Elementary, Early Childhood, and Moderate Disabilities programs are well-prepared in early literacy instruction.

The tool includes:

• A protocol for conducting a CAP observation focused on evidence-based early literacy instruction
• "Look Fors" for Grades PK–3, Grades 4–6, and Grades 6–8 (For Moderate Disabilities candidates only) specific to the key components of a core literacy block and aligned to the CAP essential elements (I-A-1 Subject Matter Knowledge, II-A-1 High Expectations and Support, and II-B-2 Safe Learning Environment)
• An adapted CAP Observation Form for identifying evidence and providing high-quality feedback specific to evidence-based early literacy

The tool was developed in partnership with faculty in the 2020-21 Early Literacy in Educator Preparation Network. In this network, faculty generated ideas for and provided feedback on the Look Fors and implementation of the tool. The tool was piloted during the 2021-22 school year and was updated based on feedback. During the 2023-2024 school year, sponsoring organizations implemented the form with a subset of candidates during CAP and the form was further refined based on user experiences with implementation

Beginning in the 2024 – 2025 school year, all sponsoring organizations are required to use the form during CAP with all candidates in Early Childhood PK–2, Elementary 1–6, Moderate Disabilities PK–2, and Moderate Disabilities PK–8 programs. For more information about implementation of the form, please see the 2024 CAP Guidelines.

• Early Literacy Observation Tool

• Quick Reference Guide: The Early Literacy Observation Form and CAP (2024 - 2025) — Updated August 2024
  This document addresses key information for Educator Preparation Program Supervisors on the Early Literacy Observation Form and its use within CAP and the CAP Online Platform during the 2024-25 school year.

Last Updated: November 13, 2024