Being able to plan and deliver a strong microteach is an essential skill for any teacher, whether aspiring, new or experienced.  This skill will be utilised in a range of situations, for example, when applying for a job; for a place on a teaching course or as part of ongoing assessment on a teaching qualification. This blog will provide insight into how you can master the microteach and draw on content in key chapters from A Complete Guide to the Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training. 

What is a microteach? 

A microteach involves the delivery of a short self-contained lesson to demonstrate your skills and potential to an observer.  The observer may be a member of an interview panel or your tutor on a teacher training course.   The length of a microteach can vary; however, it typically ranges from 10 to 30 minutes.  Whilst a microteach will typically include a presentation of some sort, it is not just a presentation.  It should have all the key elements of a longer lesson.  You should make sure that it is well planned, that you have a range of activities and effectively assess learning.   

Planning for Teaching, Learning and Assessment 

The planning stage of the microteach is essential to a positive outcome.  Don’t think you can wing it – an observer can easily distinguish a well-planned and considered lesson from one that is put together at the last minute.   Think carefully about what you want to teach and start the session with clear objectives or learning outcomes.  Think about what activities might be appropriate in teaching your subject specialism, these might be activities that your learners to develop knowledge (cognitive domain), skills (psychomotor domain) or attitudes (affective domain).  For a formal microteach as part of a teaching qualification, you will be required to complete a lesson plan, for an interview, however this can vary.  It is good practice, even if not asked to provide a lesson plan to provide one to the observer.    

Communication 

During the microteach you should carefully consider your methods of communication. There will usually be an expectation of a PowerPoint to enhance communication and to demonstrate your digital skills.  For any resources you use, check them for accuracy and clarity and make sure that the language used is of the appropriate level.   

One of the key factors that can influence the effectiveness of your communication is your familiarity with the content.  Communication is hindered if you just read from PowerPoint slides or your notes.  Use these only as prompts and ensure that you are confident in what you say.  Rehearse with friends and family to iron out any possible problems and to check your timing.   

Assessment principles, practices, and processes 

Assessment is a key element of every lesson, whether a microteach or a full lesson.  You might use questions to check prior knowledge or understanding during or at the end of the microteach.  Alternatively, you could check the impact of any activities that you have used.  Remember that learning is at the heart of what a teacher aims to achieve.  It is assessment that is used to check that learning has taken place. 

Critically Reflect and Evaluate your Own Practice 

All teachers are expected to be reflective practitioners, to continually think about their teaching and how they might improve.  Following a microteach, you will often be asked to consider what you did well, not so well and would do differently if you were to teach the session again.  You should ensure here that you do not come across overly confident or too lacking in confidence.  Try to find a balance between the two.  There may also be an opportunity to receive feedback from the observers, so you should be willing to listen and take on board what is said. 

The microteach is a fantastic opportunity share your passion for teaching and for your subject.   Make sure you take on board all the above advice, plan your session well and most of all enjoy the experience! 

Sandra Murray, co-author of A Complete Guide to the Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training