WEDNESDAY, WEDNESDAY, WEDNESDAY
Preparation for the Mock Writing Test for seventh grade has been ongoing since the beginning of December.
I don't like the word "mock" in this title because the word's most common use focuses on insulting someone. However, it is a rehearsal for the Writing Test in eighth grade that will be part of a student's record, like other standardized tests.
Students wrote their final paper for the second quarter based on the standards for this test. They developed a working knowledge of the rubric and the expectations of each level for each component.
This test will be conducted Wednesday morning in homeroom. Eighth graders will be taking their tests at the same time. I know you received a call out from the school, but wanted to emphasize the date and time so that all students will be present. There is something of comfort and solidarity when people are engaged in the same activity, even if they are creating individual products.
As the seventh grade test is not a standardized score to be included in a student's academic record, the actual writing piece will be returned to the school, along with a detailed description on the assessment of each component in the student's paper (ideas, organization, style, conventions). Next year, eighth grade Language Arts teachers will utilize these descriptors to better focus their instruction and assignments for classes and individuals. Students will see their individual papers and be able to take more ownership over their own writing to address both strengths and weaknesses.
I have emphasized the seriousness of this writing rehearsal to students. Simpson Middle School is covering the cost of the test, which comes out to $4.00 per student. The papers are sent to the state where two evaluators will score each paper. I believe in the validity of this particular assessment. The level of training and ongoing checks has ensured quality evaluators for years. Our students have read and evaluated previously scored papers so they have a good understanding of the standards.
I am excited about this opportunity for our students. I think they are too.
Thank you in advance for your support next week.
I have added the powerpoint that has occupied much of our time this week: the Behavior Management Plan summary and the Expository Writing Test Reflection.
I keep handing back the summary pages because students are not summarizing the information from the powerpoint. Some are doing the things I have taught all year offering explanations and opinions. For this piece of writring, I only want a SUMMARY. I have explained the purposes behind this assignment with regard to ownership and a basic writing skill. I have assured them that they will be able to write an opinion paper about the plan at the end of the quarter when we have worked through our adjustment period. Then they can show off all of their beautiful, insightful, and thought-provoking ideas with the appropriate purpose and style.
Download BMP powerpoint and this week's writing assignments
