The biggest gripe I have with the NWEA is that "Zey, Melissa" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: We currently use NWEA in our district. We do not start using the NWEA, however, until second grade. In kindergarten and first grade other non-computerized assessments are given. I do like the NWEA for several reasons. One, it shows growth. So often we look at state testing and it only allows for passing or failing. It doesn't show us where our students started and how far we've taken them. Second, there is a lot of information that can be pulled from the website using your class data. There is strand data for students to pinpoint where they struggled or succeeded. It can also make your guided reading groups using strand data. Now, I don't suggest using that all year, but in the beginning of the year before you know your students those groups are a great starting point. Third, it's quick. There are times in the year, I set aside for the longer assessments such as the DRA, but this is quick information that I can use immediately. Last, there is no way to prepare for it. In my mind, I see that as a wonderful thing. Why do we "prepare" these kids for tests? We should just be doing the best job we can with them everyday, and that is more than all of the preparation they need. So without prepping them, you can see exactly where they started and where they're going. The two main assessments my district administrators look at are NWEA and MCA (our state test). Now, if they're going to compare and look at data from those two tests, I want them to look at the one that shows them how my students have grown. All this said, it is still one test on one day. Data and testing are necessary evils that I don't always agree with, and no test is going to explain our students better than we can.
________________________________ Our district will begin using MAP in the fall as well, but I am cautious of the primary test because it is new. I am not sure how K-1 students will do on a computer test. We also used DIBELS, but have now shifted to AIMS Web as a screener. Annette In regard to Test Talk. Are any of you in school districts where you are forced to give NWEA MAP levels tests? I'm not sure they can be prepared for (which is a major shortcoming!), and I would LOVE to know how people do prepare their children for Levels tests. Thanks for any info. I, too, would be interested in the MAP testing. Our district will be using it beginning next fall. As the Elementary Language Arts facilitator for the district, I am in the process of deciding which of our tests will be replaced by the MAP test. So far we are looking at getting rid of GATES MCGINITE and some of our district made tests. I'm hoping the principals will be willing to abandon DIBELS or at least limit its use. >From what little I know about MAP, I would say the best way to prepare for >such a test that shows growth is by effective teaching. During our >consideration of MAP, we heard very little negative comments. Thank you, Barb _______________________________________________ Mosaic mailing list [email protected] To unsubscribe or modify your membership please go to http://literacyworkshop.org/mailman/options/mosaic_literacyworkshop.org. Search the MOSAIC archives at http://snipurl.com/MosaicArchive. _______________________________________________ Mosaic mailing list [email protected] To unsubscribe or modify your membership please go to http://literacyworkshop.org/mailman/options/mosaic_literacyworkshop.org. Search the MOSAIC archives at http://snipurl.com/MosaicArchive. _______________________________________________ Mosaic mailing list [email protected] To unsubscribe or modify your membership please go to http://literacyworkshop.org/mailman/options/mosaic_literacyworkshop.org. Search the MOSAIC archives at http://snipurl.com/MosaicArchive. --------------------------------- You rock. That's why Blockbuster's offering you one month of Blockbuster Total Access, No Cost. _______________________________________________ Mosaic mailing list [email protected] To unsubscribe or modify your membership please go to http://literacyworkshop.org/mailman/options/mosaic_literacyworkshop.org. Search the MOSAIC archives at http://snipurl.com/MosaicArchive.
