Chapter 12 Synthesis

Chapter 12: Assessment

*Things I Do Right

     I think I do a good job of communicating with parents, but especially my students, to identify the problem areas in my classroom.  I have a great rapport with almost all of my students, and this is something I pride myself on and am known for in my school.  I am so involved with every aspect of my school, from my individual classroom to Student Government (Council) to Prom Committee to athletics....  You name it--I support it or run it!  My students know that I care so much about them on so many levels.  These relationships help me to identify areas of confusion with my students...their problem areas and how to go about solving them.  I believe that I go out of my way to make sure that my assessments are fair and really assess my learning objectives.  I think this helps when trying to assess the problem areas.  I believe that I support my students in preparing for assessments.  This is one of my strengths.  Another strength I have is the ability to accommodate my students, using their IEPs and 504s as guides.  I feel that I am good at meetings discussing new and old accommodations, as well.  I also think that I modify assignments well on the fly to make sure that my students are able to progress properly.

*Oops

 I think that I use the Problem-Solving Model on my own sometimes because I go through all three steps with my students, especially when trying to reestablish an IEP or 504, but I don't really do this in teams unless we are meeting with a parent to reevaluate.  I know my students and I would benefit if we did use this model more often in the classroom daily, rather than so formally.   I have to admit that I am not particularly good at problem solving sometimes, but I am working on it.  I also need to work on progress monitoring.  With a total lack of time and such large classes, it can be difficult to fully monitor every student's progress formally, with written records.  I do, however, maintain most of this progression in my mind.  Progress monitoring is something I want to improve. 

*Things I Might Use

     I like the idea of using CBM data and graphs to view student progress and abilities.  It is a useful tool.  I do not, however, support the use of standardized tests.  I think they are so inaccurate.  I am a good student...always have been.  I am good at school--period.  This is something that I know.  My best friend, Augusta, is also good at school, but I test well.  She does not.  Standardized tests are useful in some ways, but I have no desire to be a part of them, other than when I am forced to give them.  I hope I also improve at implementing intervention and continuing to evaluate its effectiveness.