Preparing Students for High Quality Performance

Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.

-Einstein

Analyzing Sample Test Items

Answer the items yourself

Analyzing Sample Test Items

What knowledge base and processes were required?

What did you have to know as readers and writers?

Analyzing Sample Test Items

What thinking strategies were required to: Understand the question? Access information (in the text and

background) essential for the response? Put information into words or match it

with words on multiple choice questions? Self evaluate the answer for correctness,

completeness and clarity?

Analyzing Sample Test Items

ChartTypes of questions Demands on

readers

Analyzing Previous OAT Test Items

Focus Questions

It makes sense to us that the strategies needed in test-taking would be better learned if they were part of the daily curriculum.

-Kathe Taylor and Sherry WaltonChildren at the Center: A Workshop Approach to

Standardized Test Preparation K-8

Embedding Test Practice

List possible ways to embed practice on those skills in ongoing good instruction – through read aloud, shared reading, guided reading, guided writing, etc.

See chart..

Embedding Test Practice

How can these skills be used in a way that is authentic?

How can these skills be fostered in a way that is interesting for the students?

How can you help students see the purposes for these skills?

Mini Lessons and Practice Sessions

List possible mini lessons and practice sessions that are specifically designed to help students understand the genre of test taking.

We also can add a list of successful instructional techniques.

Plan a Mini Lesson

Plan a mini lesson that is specifically designed to help students understand the genre of test taking.

For Next Class (March 19):

Be ready to share the mini lesson you planned today. Bring the chart you co-create with your class.