In Ohio, it's just about that time. TEST time. Like I need to remind you! Here are a few things on my mind this time of year.
Two of my instructional heroines, Stephanie Harvey & Anne Goudvis, suggest teaching "test taking" just as you would any other genre. The ideal time for teaching it is 3 to 4 weeks prior to a high-stakes test. Teach pacing, format, key words, types of questions and general guidelines for navigating through a test. And don't forget stress management!
Remember: Your students need you to appear calm (even if you're nervous on the inside)...and to show confidence in their abilities. Believe in the strong instruction you've provided all year long.
David Pearson said it best. "Never send a test out to do a curriculum's job." (Pearson, 2005). The very best test preparation is, and always has been, building strong readers, writers & thinkers. Not just for the test, but for life.
Tanny
David Pearson's quote makes a lot of sense and is difficult to achieve with West Clermont's curriculum of 50% or better. Our students are being left in the dust. It would be my hope that the teachers would stand up to the school board demanding to work on a repeal of HB920 and also work on updating our curriculum. If we truly want excellent schools the time has come to step up and deliver.
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