ABSTRACT
Observation is the basis for formative assessment and plays an important part in the practitioner's work. Detailed observation is necessary to gain an understanding of each child's holistic development and educational progress. Observations can be expressed in a variety of forms; for instance, notes, photographs, child records, child study, Individual Education Plan (IEP), profile and end-of-year report, or a specially designated meeting with the parents. In the initial meeting with parents and child, the kindergarten teacher observes the child's physicality, speech, social interaction and possibly activities such as drawing and some play. The kindergarten teachers work together with colleagues to plan their work and prepare stories, songs, verses and activities appropriate to the children's age, the time of year, or sometimes to an individual child's life situation. The teacher makes extensive written notes and then often shares these with the parents of the child, who are asked to contribute to the picture as well.
