Depth & Complexity Classroom Observation Tool
ICON
OBSERVED STUDENT BEHAVIORS
STUDENTS
Draws accurate and advanced conclusions
based on information
Is aware of problems others do not see
Tells or reproduces stories and events with
detail
Is a keen observer (spots details others miss)
Tries to discover the how and why of things
Recognizes patterns
Displays strong sense of justice (may
overreact emotionally)
Uses complex language and math symbol
systems
Communicates well with symbols (art, design,
music or dance)
Understands advanced mathematical
concepts
Sees cause and effect relationships; asks
“why?”
Takes objects apart and reassembles with
speed and accuracy
Designs experiments to test hypotheses
(developed logical ways to collect and
analyze data)
Is curious; asks how, why and what if?
Sees cause and effect relationships; asks
“why?”
Expresses relationships between past and
present
Assumes another persona during activities or
conversations
Responds to needs of others (is able to see
another’s point of view)
Connects and uses mathematical language
and skills in meaningful real-world ways
Makes mental connections (transfers learning
into other subjects or real-life situations)
Prefers work with more complexity
Challenges teacher to go further in depth and
complexity
This document is a crosswalk of some behaviors listed in Teacher Observation of Potential in Students (TOPS) & Depth & Complexity Prompts