The. Test.
This is something that I have thought about a great deal. I hear so many stories about teachers, schools and districts who set aside real teaching and learning to prepare for tests that are simply supposed to be a “dipstick” to measure the state of affairs in our classrooms. I am a believer (to a degree) in some forms of standardized testing.
Districts need to get some feedback on how their students and programs are performing. That being said, the evolution of testing into high-stakes, pressure-riddled experiences for teachers and students nearly sends me over the edge. Because I think this is so important, I have revisited a post I wrote last year about this time to make sure that we continue to think about what is important about testing–and the number one thing we need to remember is our students and what best practices in education really are.
I don’t.
Test Taking Tips 101
It’s a mindset thing…