Five-minute coaching tool
Observation-to-Action Feedback Planner
Move from narrow evidence to actionable feedback.
Coaches preparing observation feedback
Use this when you need a focused next move.
Time
5 minutes
Source
Tip 16: From Observations to Actionable Feedback
In five minutes, leave with
One evidence statement, one coaching question, and one next instructional move.
Work the tool
Answer three core questions.
State the evidence
What did you see or hear without adding interpretation?
Identify the pattern
What learner response or instructional pattern matters most?
Choose the next move
What small instructional action can the teacher try and you revisit together?
Two optional prompts
- What question will invite the teacher to interpret the evidence first?
- When and how will you follow up on the action?
Finish line
Turn your thinking into a usable coaching move.
Write one sentence for the evidence, one question for the conversation, and one action for follow-up.
See a worked example
Evidence: six of eight student responses repeated the model but did not explain their reasoning. Question: What do you notice about how students used the model? Next move: model one think-aloud, then collect three explanations during guided practice.
Connect to the book
Keep building the practice.
Use the related chapter or article to understand the principle behind the tool.
Use this with your team
Bring the tool into professional learning.
Dr. Matt Rhoads consults with school district leaders and instructional coaches to turn coaching priorities into practical routines, tools, and measurable next steps.
25 Tips for Instructional Coaches and Leaders 