Upon more researching for science on standardized tests, I found an article about President Obama's proposal on testing. It was acknowledged that the subjects that the tests care most about are studied the least by students. Students are getting extra English, math, and language classes and not enough science and history. These two are covered in standardized tests- science as a test section and history sometimes comes up in the reading section.
I also found some ways that teachers can help improve their class's scores on the science section of standardized tests. Some I agreed with, and others I found were primitive and not very creative or learning enhancing. First, teachers could begin the class with a question of the day- one that would be similar to a question on the standardized test and could correspond with the day's lesson. This can help the students realize that what they learn in class will be applicable later on and to understand the significance of what they learn in class. A tip that I found not very helpful was using flash cards for important facts. Flash cards have a place for quick math facts, but I think science is more concept oriented and need more explanation than flash cards.
An interesting fact I learned is that the science reasoning portion is on the ACT but that on the SAT, there is a variable section. Science could be one of the variable sections, along with other subjects.
Works Consulted:
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/pittsburgh/s_675999.html
http://www.ehow.com/list_5963026_ways-standardized-test-scores-science.html
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/sat-science-reasoning-exam-tips.html
Colleen-
ReplyDeleteI like your idea of beginning the class with the question of the day. It makes sense to use one similar to one that may have come from a standardized test and to use it as an intro into that day's lesson. This sets your day up easily so you can role into what you're teaching about.
I believe the teachers coming out of college these days have a tough road ahead because we are aware of the problems standardized testing brings. I think it will be our job to bring the subjects of science and history back to our students without losing sight of the standardized tests our students must pass. The next few years will be interesting!
-Luke