#caedchat is for California educators, by California educators. All are welcome as moderators and participants discuss issues that emerge in California education, which are generally applicable to other regions of the United States.
Welcome to #caedchat, where educators gather to share and collaborate! Tonight’s topic is 'Keeping the Ball Rolling Through Testing Season' with @KrisciaCabral.
This is the guy, Michael Anton, who once said "Islam is not a 'religion of peace'; it’s a militant faith that exalts conversion by the sword" and claimed "“Islam and the modern West are incompatible". Doubt there'll be many mentions of this in the various news stories & profiles.
Hi, I’m an interim principal in Southern California. I am looking forward to learning how to finish the year strong and sane with all of the various activities and state testing. #CAedchat
My spring break is coming to a close. So is my break from Twitter :) Back to work tomorrow! This #caedchat will help me getting my teacher mode back on.
Hello #CAedchat. Lemarr Treadwell, Fresno CA. Thanks for supplying the questions in advance tonight. Also, thank you Kriscia @KrisciaCabral for moderating.
My spring break is coming to a close. So is my break from Twitter :) Back to work tomorrow! This #caedchat will help me getting my teacher mode back on.
I teach introductory chemistry at a large public university. We give a standardized final exam. I hope to hear ways to decrease student's anxiety. #CAedchat
Hi #caedchat! I'm Debbie from Sacramento. I teacher middle school - mostly math. Easter vacation ends tonight - looking for that motivation and positive energy!
Hi #caedchat! I'm Debbie from Sacramento. I teacher middle school - mostly math. Easter vacation ends tonight - looking for that motivation and positive energy!
Leila almost here. Can’t seem to shake this bug I’ve had this week. I’ll hang for as long as I can. Can’t mess with my perfect attendance lol #caedchat
#CAedchat Nathan from Visalia. I am in my 7th year of teaching, third in middle school ELA. I am part time IT at my school as well, soon to be full time tech coach next year. Hoping to make new connections and develop relationships!
A1: I see the value of summative assessments for reflection...
I hate the fact that so much gets tied into an EOY test as the prime indicator of success.
#caedchat
A1: I think there is an strong overemphasis on standardized testing around the US. Unfortunately, doing well on these tests will not equate to long term success & in a fast changing world where mere knowledge won’t be valued nearly as much, our students deserve better #caedchat
A1: standardized tests have a limited role to play in education. As a nation, we do too much, and often for the wrong purposes, and draw improper conclusions about the results. #caedchat
A1: It’s not horrible to have a summative “benchmark”. I wish it had been written in conjunction with the standards (the WHAT we teach). And, if we got usable data to inform instruction, that would be a plus. And it shouldn't be the end all and be all about a student #caedchat
Brian, 8th gr. sci from IL
A1 If you are looking for a number to represent learning fine...but standardized test I don't think are the best gauge to measure student growth #caedchat
Standardized testing is a two sided sword. It gives opportunities to students to demonstrate their learning in a more global manner but constricts their learning to narrow corridors set by external pressures. #caedchat
A1: It’s not my favorite moment of the school year.The amount of stress it puts on Ss saddens me.There is way too much emphasis on this one moment in time instead of an entire year of growth. #caedchat
A1- they seem outdated and one-size fits all - but they also provide a quick snapshot of your campus/district (but that can be misconstrued with so many variables) #caedchat
A1: I think it's good! I think it is what it is - an annual baseline. For me, normal stops, we test (and eat snacks) and move on. Use the data where you can. #caedchat
Standardized testing is a two sided sword. It gives opportunities to students to demonstrate their learning in a more global manner but constricts their learning to narrow corridors set by external pressures. #caedchat
A1 while I love having the data I don’t feel it’s a great window into many Ss acc levels also doesn’t give you data on how they learn and can be very skewed if a Ss has test anxiety #CAEdChat
Christine Dixon Innovation Coordinator TOSA for @DoublePeak_K8 school in @SanMarcosUSD Here for a bit to collaborate, coming back from an amazing relaxing Spring Break :) #caedchat
A1: I’m all over the board on standardized testing. Sometimes I see it as a necessary evil. Sometimes I see it as an unnecessary evil.
It seems our kiddos have to pay a hefty price (stress, anxiety, etc) in order for us adults to get the information we claim to need.
#caedchat
A1: always being in private school, we weren’t required, but we did it because our scores were often higher than public school. Hearing lots of podcasts and reading blogs saying Ts stick to “safe teaching” because of standardized tests #caedchat
Hi @KrisciaCabral. It’s Thy, 4th grade teacher in Poway Unified #caedchat A1: see value of accountability but standardized tests make me grumpy cause Ss and Ps put too much stake in them
A1- they seem outdated and one-size fits all - but they also provide a quick snapshot of your campus/district (but that can be misconstrued with so many variables) #caedchat
A1: always being in private school, we weren’t required, but we did it because our scores were often higher than public school. Hearing lots of podcasts and reading blogs saying Ts stick to “safe teaching” because of standardized tests #caedchat
A1: It’s not my favorite moment of the school year.The amount of stress it puts on Ss saddens me.There is way too much emphasis on this one moment in time instead of an entire year of growth. #caedchat
A1: I would distinguish between statewide tests and AP/IB tests. AP is a bit of a racket but I think the tests have more validity. State/district tests are more of an issue IMO
#caedchat
Hi @KrisciaCabral. It’s Thy, 4th grade teacher in Poway Unified #caedchat A1: see value of accountability but standardized tests make me grumpy cause Ss and Ps put too much stake in them
I was thinking also kids involvement - tired, hungry, fatigued, ambivalent, confused, etc — can misconstrue true understanding - even the point of the Pencil can affect the score (truly, I always needed sharpened to do my best) #caedchat
A2: When I was in classroom, I tried to keep it positive. Messages on the kids desks, not too much stress put on the test...more of a show off what you know. Weave in something light & fun “tension breaker” ...still want them leaving my room with a smile on their face! #caedchat
A2 take your breaks and re-charge, I always plan fun slide shows about topics of Ss interest to fill into the gaps in our testing day. Students give me topics a month before and can be on anything they want as long as it’s school app. #CAEdChat
I was thinking also kids involvement - tired, hungry, fatigued, ambivalent, confused, etc — can misconstrue true understanding - even the point of the Pencil can affect the score (truly, I always needed sharpened to do my best) #caedchat
A1: I think that standardized testing would be fine if it weren’t so high stakes. If it were just one more piece of information rather than the definitive judgment of a student’d or school’s success. #CAedchat
A2. I test myself by making a blank seating chart and making sure I know each of the 78 student's names. I also reflect on the semester. I draw on the back of the seating chart. Sometimes I paint. #caedchat
A2- I teach technology - so no testing in my class - this year, it will be our makers faire week - so lots of relaxing creativity during class - no tech at all #caedchat
A1:I try to balance test time with group activities or art projects that let kids relieve stress and refocus on why we are at school—to enjoy learning and the journey of where it takes us #caedchat
A2: We are a Sensory Sensitive campus. I have alerting (crunchy) and calming (chewy) snacks for breaks. Keep them positive. Keep their perspective on straight. #caedchat
A2 Time: Be happy w/what I get I know that I will have limited access to my Ss, make the most of those moments
Emotions: W/every S interaction keep it real, a test on a day is a view, not what the child is all the time @HowardKiyuna said earlier, its a baseline #caedchat
A2: honestly there are housekeeping issues-I have sub plans to make for other classes-have learned to plan ahead-try to be serious and be encouraging to other Ts #caedchat
A2: We are a Sensory Sensitive campus. I have alerting (crunchy) and calming (chewy) snacks for breaks. Keep them positive. Keep their perspective on straight. #caedchat
A2: I see every day as preparation for the testing season. I focus on teaching for understanding...not teaching for covering the textbook.
When testing season comes, I just let my students have fun with the testing. Low stress...for me and my kiddos.
#caedchat
Fun is so important! A fun science #CER that can be done stress free over a week is a great way to get Ss to relax their mind outside of the testing window #caedchat
A2: honestly there are housekeeping issues-I have sub plans to make for other classes-have learned to plan ahead-try to be serious and be encouraging to other Ts #caedchat
A2: I am at a small school, but I am in charge of setting up the testing and being the go to for issues. I am often called out of my class at least once each week. Thankfully we are small haha! #caedchat
A1 Christy 7/8 Math I feel like the new CAASPP tests do a much better job of assessing learning. But it is still 1 test, 1 day (so to speak). #caedchat
#caedchat A2: I try to visualize/imagine each student ten years into the future. I wonder if they will realize that the stress which they incurred on themselves is no different than the same test anxiety which they may feel during the DMV test (written) in the future.
A2 #caedchat I always made it a joint celebration of our year of learning- no stress, no pressure, Ss had their chance to shine. Not a fan as T but my SS NEVER knew- I was their cheerleader & they loved every day ;)
A2: Make sure to schedule engaging, creative activities after the test. Some of the most wonderful projects - especially art - are seen around testing time. #CAedchat
Hi Christine! Happy to see you here! I could totally picture you as their #1 Fan! A wonderful way to show positivity, make it through with smiles on faces! #caedchat
A2 #caedchat I always made it a joint celebration of our year of learning- no stress, no pressure, Ss had their chance to shine. Not a fan as T but my SS NEVER knew- I was their cheerleader & they loved every day ;)
A3: Make them aware of schedule, try to keep the weeks light from other work, get a good night’s sleep, have a hearty breakfast. Some parents are over the top when it comes to getting a number...important to build in communicating what results really mean! #caedchat
A3: We used to send a letter home giving parents perspective. Lot's of rest. I don't give HW on that week. Try to get other staff to do the same. Maybe reading. Maybe something of interest. #caedchat
A3 I talk to them about how testing data can be helpful for me as an educator to tell where they are in their core studies, also that they should not stress about the tests as they are just one data point #CAEdChat
A2. I have to realize that summative testing provides information to: Ss, Ts, parents, principal, superintendent, and state board. Formative assessments provide dats to Ss, Ts, Ps. #caedchat
A3: I make sure to tell them that it does not define their child’s progress in school and that it won’t have any effect on their report card - or their future. #CAedchat
A3:This year our school is creating a “Rock the Test” rockstar theme. The hopes is that if we start with positive energy, we will end with the same.I appreciate the effort from admin. #caedchat
A3: testing info is part of my weekly class updates that are emailed to parents that way it’s just part of our class schedule instead of giving it high stakes feel #caedchat
A3: if we are going to do it, we should give it our best effort. Our Ts, Admin and Family Liaisons give factual info to parents, what it is intended to measure, how results are used. For Ss we encourage best effort #caedchat
A3 - My school has been reminding parents since before our spring break. Every weekly email has the reminder. I just tell my Ss that it is not on their report card and to do their best. I do not give any HW. #caedchat
A3 When the dates get posted & prep begins I try to have Ss see the positives of doing well...evidence they can use to show ability to handle a AP class, or for personal growth/confidence #caedchat
A3: my school/district does a good job of this but we have Open House this week so I get to answer Qs and be positive some more on Tues ;) #caedchat#IEedchat
A3. I usually model some deep breathing any time I bring up the topic of the cumulative final exam that is worth 45% of their course grade. We only talk to students. FERPA prevents us from speaking to parents.
#CAedchat
A3:I personally let Ps know that it’s not the end all measure of Ss growth. “One day in time” does not accurately show growth as a global citizen in our world. #caedchat
A3 Just give reminders to parents about having kids get a good nights sleep and breakfast. I don't want to talk about it too much and have the parents stress the kids out! #caedchat
A4: I think I stressed this TOO MUCH when I was in the classroom. I would hope to instill good learning/protocols/strategies from September so that there wouldn't be this panic to prepare for THE TEST #caedchat
A4 we talk about it a month before, review how to read and interpret questions so we can plan a good response, also review and practice stress management skills and talk about how it’s just one type of annual marker of progress #caedchat
A4:It is a discussion we have as a whole class. I give Ss the purpose behind it. Throughout the year when we talk academic language I let them know they will see things like that on tests. Preview the tests so they aren’t surprised. Reduce the stress of the unknown. #caedchat
A4 Connecting them to process that may be helpful Teaching sci #NGSS is all about process, I've stressed that to Ss If you know the process of how you think/learn there is nothing you CAN'T figure out #caedchat
A4: I talk it up-have a slide prezo that includes answers to what the heck and why I should care about this in grade 11, expectations, incentives, share w/Ts and Ss #caedchat#ieedchat
A4: Review sessions. Talk through testing strategies: if you don't answer it you have 100% chance of getting it wrong. We're doing common core version as of last year so all effort can be helpful. #caedchat
A3: We use the MAP growth assessment. When we talk about this, we frame it in viewing growth throughout the year. We are focused on the S making progress rather than comparing to others Ss #CAedchat
A4 Last year we had a Circle and talked about what they were afraid of with the test and they shared strategies with each other (also shared things they liked about the test) #caedchat
A4:The best way to prepare students is best first instruction everyday all year long. Making sure lessons are standards aligned and that students have experienced using the tech tools used prior to test days #caedchat
A4 Connecting them to process that may be helpful Teaching sci #NGSS is all about process, I've stressed that to Ss If you know the process of how you think/learn there is nothing you CAN'T figure out #caedchat
We do mindfulness and breathing exercises right before we start tests. In days before we practice the tech skills needed so that procedures add to stress that kids are already feeling #caedchat
A4: Review sessions. Talk through testing strategies: if you don't answer it you have 100% chance of getting it wrong. We're doing common core version as of last year so all effort can be helpful. #caedchat
A4: By having Ss take the online practice tests to familiarize themselves with the format. It takes a lot of stress away if they are familiar with the format and know how to navigate the test. #CAedchat
A4: since my Ss are 3rd grade and this is the 1st time they tack the test we use the practice tests so they are comfortable with the format. We talk about it from the beginning of the year so that they are hopefully at ease when testing starts.#caedchat
We do mindfulness and breathing exercises right before we start tests. In days before we practice the tech skills needed so that procedures add to stress that kids are already feeling #caedchat
A4. We do have a 'review sheet' that is a PowerPoint with bullet points, which we make available online for students. We reserve one class meeting for a 'review session' where students can ask questions. Probably not the best but that's why I'm here to learn. #caedchat
A4: I am more stressed out than the students. On Friday we received several emails with resources to share with students. I wished it could have been sent sooner so I could have more time to evaluate #caedchat
A4: it is difficult because some Ss are used to performing so well. They get anxiety and worry about scores. Others know it isn’t a grade and don’t care. I try to instill the growth mindset and let them know how this helps me teach them better. #CAedchat
As an avid fan of #ditchhw I definitely agree teachers who still think they should give hw should especially pause during state testing! Give those hard working kids a break! @alicekeeler#caedchat
We do it every year as well. It's also a good way to review the concepts (do the grade specific test). I figure if I can't remember how to log in every year, the Ss can't possibly remember everything about the test! #caedchat
A4: By having Ss take the online practice tests to familiarize themselves with the format. It takes a lot of stress away if they are familiar with the format and know how to navigate the test. #CAedchat
#CAedchat A4: by the test, there is not much more in terms of studyingthat can be accomplished. Suggesting eating well and getting enough sleep is the best course of action. Understanding that 90% of the test preparationshould have been done in the weeks leading up is critical.
As an avid fan of #ditchhw I definitely agree teachers who still think they should give hw should especially pause during state testing! Give those hard working kids a break! @alicekeeler#caedchat
A4: By having Ss take the online practice tests to familiarize themselves with the format. It takes a lot of stress away if they are familiar with the format and know how to navigate the test. #CAedchat
A5: Adjust my attitude first. Hold myself responsible for modeling a positive, non-sarcastic attitude about testing in the first place. Discuss their fears and confidence. #caedchat
A4: I tried to use @goFormative to prep the students but had issues with images displaying. Will work this week on paper instead and with the practice site. #caedchat
A5 we do fun non acc slide shows, take out door game breaks, have snacks in class, we talk about managing our stress and kids or I lead stress reduction exercises. No HW or big due dates hold council sessions as needed . #caedchat
A5 This may sound too old fashion, but I hand out 2 peppermint Life Savers per student per test During the test those little candies have an impact #caedchat
I love this approach. They don’t know the people grading them. They know you. Help them feel that this helps you and they will feel connected to it! #caedchat
I like that you start with you. Sometimes we forget that Ss model what they see. If our attitude isn’t right, theirs can’t be either. Thank you for this! #caedchat
A5: Adjust my attitude first. Hold myself responsible for modeling a positive, non-sarcastic attitude about testing in the first place. Discuss their fears and confidence. #caedchat
A5 we do fun non acc slide shows, take out door game breaks, have snacks in class, we talk about managing our stress and kids or I lead stress reduction exercises. No HW or big due dates hold council sessions as needed . #caedchat
A5: Just reassure them that it will not affect their grades. Tell them that they are smart and that they can just do their best. Have lots of fun activities for time after the test every day. #CAedchat
A5a If a student is upset/stressed after a test I let them know that one test does not define them as learner Downplaying it for them seems to help sometimes #caedchat
#caedchat A5: a discussion with students about the fact that there is nothing good that can come from stress is important. Having the student understand that prior knowledge/participation in class is what is important. Stress is not useful and will hurt them.
My teaching partner @anasmithteach does this! I think it gets Ss excited and motivated! I use to give gum…maybe I’ll bring back the mints for fun! #caedchat
A5 This may sound too old fashion, but I hand out 2 peppermint Life Savers per student per test During the test those little candies have an impact #caedchat
A5. I maintain eye contact and smile at them. 😧➡️🙂Sometimes I know they are remembering the way I said something and I want them to know I believe they can remember. #caedchat
A5 This may sound too old fashion, but I hand out 2 peppermint Life Savers per student per test During the test those little candies have an impact #caedchat
A5: I leave little notes on their desks with positive comments and motivational quotes. Keep the energy on the happy side and let them know I’m there for them. Free hugs and all! #caedchat
A5: Be prepared on my end, welcome Ss who are not my own, make sure expectations are clear--devices are a thing--snacks, water & mints #caedchat#IEedchat
A5 This may sound too old fashion, but I hand out 2 peppermint Life Savers per student per test During the test those little candies have an impact #caedchat
A5: easier said then done but studentsfeed off your energy so don’t be stressed. I had a great administrator tell me one time that the moment he stopped worrying about state testing was the moment his scores went up. #CAedchat
A5: once the testing is underway I think it’s kind of too late for that. Though there are obviously individual differences, if kids overall have anxiety, it must have been seeded much earlier
#caedchat
I hope we all now think "Why??" did we need to do that? I think I did Choice boards & "fun" website links, OH! and test prep practice extra credit! UGH, I'm sorry my students of 8ish+ years ago when Standardized Tests controlled us Ts ;) #caedchat
In reply to
@Filibuster3, @HowardKiyuna, @alicekeeler
A6 RELAX! If you've done a good job all year, it will show on the test. If you're stressed, it stresses the kids out. Get some sleep, eat, have confidence in your Ss. Tests aren't everything. #caedchat
A6 Test results are a glimpse, not the full picture of your students, or an reflection of your teaching Prepare but don't sacrifice quality teaching for a test #caedchat
Remember that this isn’t the important moment, all the individual growth your kids make over the year is so much more meaningful and will look dramatically different from Ss to Ss #CAEdChat
The voice you hear in your head telling you all the things you need to do is really only coming from you. Be kind to yourself and don't let others dictate your stressors. A6, I guess. #caedchat
A6: I think it is more difficult in high school. In math I have students who don't remember Geometry and Algebra II and that is what they are tested on. #caedchat
A6 RELAX! If you've done a good job all year, it will show on the test. If you're stressed, it stresses the kids out. Get some sleep, eat, have confidence in your Ss. Tests aren't everything. #caedchat
A6: Hakuna Matata my friends. Your job as a T is to inspire and educate Ss beyond one measurable test. Grow life-long learners that bring good in the world. Love yourself and share that love with your kiddos. That’s what they need most #caedchat
#caedchat A6: keep up the great work. Test writing is just as much about the learning process of the student as it is about the learning process of the instructor. Test writing is an optimization problem. There's always room for improvement.
A6. Let it go. Your nervousness can be contagious. Students need you to be a leader. Set a tone of gratitude. Thankful to have spent the semester learning together. #caedchat
Not sure where this response fits in to the broader chat, but Ts need to be well-informed about assessment principles/concepts, variations in uses, policies, etc. We must push back for our students’ sake #caedchat
A7: That needs to be kept to adult only conversations. Kids and parents don’t need to be a part of that. Go get a massage, attend a happy hour, go bowling...do something off campus. Come back the next day and focus on the kids! #kidsareourbusiness#caedchat
It’s not enough to grin and bear it, to strategize ways to make the most of a bad situation re: testing. We have the collective power and influence to make things better. #caedchat
A6 I realize that testing stresses me since learning is a journey but testing seems to be a race that we all have to do at same time even if or when it’s not really optimal time for us as individuals #caedchat
A7: Happy Hour with friends! Spend time being happy! Surround yourself with positive energy. Take a walk. Calm your mind. Remind yourself there is more to learning than testing! #caedchat
As a state and nation, we’re testing kids too early, too much, and for the wrong purposes. We’re making too much meaning out of the results for individual students and schools. #caedchat
A7 I'm old as salt...I take everything with a grain of it The more engaged I am w/Ss each day the more ready for the real world I know they are That is what matters most #caedchat
A7 I take time in the Am and get my fav coffee, vent w/coworkers after work if needed, pack a good lunch, listen to upbeat music, make sure I have good family/play time after work to unwind #CAEdChat
A7: That needs to be kept to adult only conversations. Kids and parents don’t need to be a part of that. Go get a massage, attend a happy hour, go bowling...do something off campus. Come back the next day and focus on the kids! #kidsareourbusiness#caedchat
A7. I definitely decompress by going to the fanciest department store in my area and doing some serious browsing. The colors and smells are a great change of pace. It helps me feel fancy. #caedchat
For me the real stress comes in the days before the scores are released knowing that so many great Ts and awesome Ss have put so much of themselves on the line. I feel the weight of 1000 Ts and 16,000 Ss. #caedchat
For me the real stress comes in the days before the scores are released knowing that so many great Ts and awesome Ss have put so much of themselves on the line. I feel the weight of 1000 Ts and 16,000 Ss. #caedchat
A8 I'm fortunate to be at a school that does school-wide Genius Hours. It really puts emphasis on Ss creativity and I think that's what parents remember. #caedchat
A8 #FormativeAssessments & #PBL has done a lot to have Ss see their complete growth FAs & PBL will give Ss evidence of their learning that a 1x test cannot #caedchat
Is it just me? I’m surprised there’s not more pushback. A program that seems to stress people out so much - students and teachers - is not really about teaching and learning then, is it? Don’t normalize it so much. #caedchat
A8 I hand enter notes into all report cards that detail growth and strengths as well as struggles for each class, my hope is parents and the next T will read these and see a more holistic picture of their child’s growth over the year #CAEdChat
My wife @ginakiyuna gives her Ss a bag of candy with inspirational notes on them: Smarties - You've Got This Smarty Pants, a Cookie - You're one tough cookie, Swedish Fish - you're ofishally done. #caedchat
Genius Hour is great. You can see authentic learning happening there. It’s great that your parents are involved and can remember that moment with their kiddos. #caedchat
A8 I'm fortunate to be at a school that does school-wide Genius Hours. It really puts emphasis on Ss creativity and I think that's what parents remember. #caedchat
A8. I do ask some metacognitive questions such as 'What are your Fears/Strengths/Weaknesses?' What grade do you deserve? What would you do differently if you had to take this class again? Do you have any advice for future students? #caedchat
A8: Yes we Tweet out class projects and post videos of presentations on private YouTube channel. We also do memory book/ portfolio of kid work and photos #caedchat
A8 I hand enter notes into all report cards that detail growth and strengths as well as struggles for each class, my hope is parents and the next T will read these and see a more holistic picture of their child’s growth over the year #CAEdChat
