NWEA testing today

Hello,

Well, we had some testing today.  I didn't realize that we were the first homeroom class to be tested until yesterday.  I put it up on the calendar, but realized that I was late informing you, so I apologize for that.  The NWEA MAP test is a test that Brunswick performs to measure growth over time.  We give it in the fall and then again in March.  I'm not a huge fan of the test, but I thought this year's version was by far the best that I had seen.  Many questions gave students virtual manipulatives to use to help them solve the questions.  It also seemed to have more real world problems and less questions on pure definitions. 

It did take a huge chunk of our day, however.  The kids tested from 9:10 to 10:10 and about half of them went again from 2:30 until the end of the day.  I was proud that they were taking their time, but I don't think that all of them have a firm grasp on what "doing their best" means yet.  We'll get there.  I was constantly reminding students to use their scrap paper.  I also wanted them to raise their hand if they were unsure of something so that we could go over it later.  They still aren't too keen on letting me know what they don't know.  I keep telling them that it's my job to teach them what they don't know and that my job is easier if you tell me what you don't know, rather than pretending that you do.  It's understandable. 

I tried to explain about our spelling homework on the homework calendar.  On the usual Monday, students will get their last week's spelling test back.  They will write down words they missed and add a few more so they have ten words to study for the week.  I write challenge words on the board to help them come up with their ten.  This afternoon, time was limited, so I didn't get to check them all.  I usually go around and sign their notebook, showing you that the words are approved and assuring them that they are studying words that are actually spelled correctly.  I will check these in the morning.

The reading logs that went home are a bit different than I have done in the past.    Students are expected to read a minumum of twenty minutes a night for at least five nights a week.  I am allowing them to keep track of pages read instead of minutes.  I feel like that will be more convenient for my better readers.  On busy nights, reading can be put on hold, but five nights need to have reading listed.  Students must also provide a one or two sentence explanation of either what they read or something that they learned from their reading.  Reading logs are due on Monday with parent and student signatures.  As always, if you have any questions or comments, 841-2599 or email.  They don't recommend putting cell numbers up so I probably won't post that number again this year.  Please write it down or put it in your phone.

Our first music class of the year tomorrow.  We have Ms. Brown.  She is an outstanding music teacher and I'm sure our class will be one of her best.  I make a point of checking on those things. 

Have a great night.  If you want to hear a little story, ask your child about my cave experience. 

Mr. Shea