Hello All!
I am still striving to use assessment on a weekly basis. So far this year, I am doing the normal. Spelling Test, Graded Grammar, TWIRL Letters (graded every two weeks)MAP and DRA. I am aware of this being more formal assessment but that is what time allows for the beginning of the year. I was definitely feeling overwhelmed, and I haven't written since. Do any of you have hints for how to handle early school testing?
One simple way to get immediate feedback, or assessment is FASTT Math. I can see the focus facts that the kiddos need to work on. I think this information is important because I can use it to involve parents. A certain student was struggling on 9s so I let the parent and math teacher know. How have you guys used FASTT Math to drive instruction?
My focus for October will be on informal assessment. I will be using my conferencing forms for Readers and Writers Workshops. I have also decided to meet with my below level kiddos each day of Reader's Workshop. Either a conference or a running record, something so I can make sure they are keeping on track this year. I would have to say a definate advantage to the second year loop. What are you noticing about advantages of looping with the kids?
I would love to respond to your blog posts. I think it is really helpful when you ask questions so I know what to respond to.
SO:
What types of formal assessment do you do?
What type of informal assessment do you do? How do you give this feedback?
How are you fitting in informal assessments?
How are you using the FASTT Math information?
What are some advantages in relation to assessment in the 2nd year of the loop?
Great questions Joy! In first grade, we do not have as many formal assessments besides DRA and we will eventually get into spelling. In our classroom we have been using a lot of informal assessments on high frequency words and anecdotal records to get the kids up and running with reader's workshop. These anecdotal records really drive our strategy groups and reader's workshop instruction. As far as looping I think the advantages are huge! I am noticing that even more this year with beginning a new loop. The second year I felt was so much faster paced as you know where the kids are at from the beginning and you are better able to jump right in to get them where they need to go. I think it also helps with those students who are struggling because you know what kinds of interventions you tried last year and what was working and what maybe needs to be changed. I hope this answers some of your questions, not all of them apply to my first grade room! Thanks Joy!
ReplyDeleteSuch good questions! Hmmm. I bet there are other schools who loop. I wonder how you might expand your learning network and tap into resources beyond our district? I know twitter is blocked here at school but this website is a great resource to get some conversations going... http://twitter4teachers.pbworks.com/w/page/22554523/Elementary-Teachers
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