The Narrative Form and MCAS in History and Social Science

Massachusetts Department of Education Kevin M. DwyerJohn Keh

MCAS Guide to History and Social Science Assessmentswww.doe.mass.edu/mcas/2007/admin/hssguide.pdf 2007 Item ReleasesGrade 5: www.doe.mass.edu/mcas/2007/release/g5hss.pdfGrade 7: www.doe.mass.edu/mcas/2007/release/g7hss.pdfHigh School:www.doe.mass.edu/mcas/2007/release/g9_10hss.pdf  

The question Does a student’s ability to construct a

solid narrative assure strong performance on MCAS in History and Social Science? No

Will students who can construct a solid narrative enjoy an advantage by developing that skill? Most likely

What is “a narrative”?

American Heritage Dictionary defines it as “A narrated account; a story”

A metacognitive skill A framework for learning History A form of writing that establishes

context and conveys sequence

Essential Narrative Elements

As History Who What When Where Why How

As Literature Character Plot Setting

Theme (Theory)

Other Useful Tools

“Telescoping”— An ability to apply the appropriate level

of focus to the most pertinent details Thematic Understanding—

Themes help to organize the narrative The framework suggests seven themes All open-response questions relate to at

least one of these themes

Curriculum Framework Themes 1. The evolution of the concepts of personal freedom,

individual responsibility, & respect for human dignity2. The growth and impact of centralized state power3. The influence of economic, political, religious, and

cultural ideas as human societies move beyond regional, national, or geographic boundaries

4. The effects of geography on the history of civilization and nations

5. The growth and spread of free markets and industrial economies

6. The development of scientific reasoning, technology, and formal education over time and their effects (etc.)

7. The birth, growth, and decline of civilizations

How we score MCAS responses

“Thoroughly and accurately” = 4 pts

“Generally” = 3 pts

“In a limited way” = 2 pts

“Minimally” = 1 pt

Our rubric says:

Closing thoughts Moving beyond a “once upon a time”

construction

Advice to students: Interpret AHD defines as:

1) To explain or clarify the meaning of2) To conceive the significance of; construe