Test Prep News You Can Use

Hello Team 201,

I have just posted on Edmodo, and will repeat the message here.  We are just weeks away from the ISAT, which means that our regular Science and Math pacing may feel a little different.

 As you may have heard, this year's ISAT test will draw 20% from the new Common Core Standards.  These new, national standards are much more rigorous, and very different from the old Illinois standards.  This raising of the bar is a good thing for our kids and schools, but it will take some "getting used to."  Perhaps you received the letter in the mail from our new CEO?  In it, she explains that students who were once firmly planted in the "Meets" or "Exceeds" category may find themselves in the "Needs Improvement" category this year!  This could be shocking to parents who are accustomed to high levels of performance from their children.  Please know that we are working hard to conquer these new standards in 201. In every content area, your children and I are problem solving, analyzing, and interpreting evidence.  We are not just learning the content, we are learning how to be better questioners and thinkers!


Please be aware that there are several activities that your child can do at home to boost Common Core Test Readiness.  I have posted several activities on Study Island.  These activities are based on Common Core Standards.   Access to Study Island is one of the many benefits of being a Disney kid!  I will be checking your progress daily, so log on!


ST Math is another fantastic Disney "perk."  Research from the MIND Institute shows that students who reach 75% skills mastery before the ISAT show significant growth on standardized tests.  Many of our amazing mathematicians in 201 are not reaching their potential.  Is your child struggling with a topic, or level?  Take a break and get some support on Khan Academy or Brain Pop.  Some kids need to see the more traditional, concrete explanation to help them push through.  75% is the magic number.

Brain Pop is yet another fantastic, and favorite, resource. All students have access to the member log in.  Some Science topics that you may want to explore are: The Rock Cycle, Erosion, The Phases of the Moon, The Earth (focusing on revolution, rotation, seasons, day time), Light, Sound, Simple Machines.....

Does this sound like a lot?  It sure is!  We will be covering some major ground in these next few weeks, so hold on to your hats!   I will award a badge on Edmodo to the first five kids who can name the literary device I used in the last sentence.

Have a great weekend Team201!  Parents, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions!

Best,

MB Ginn

P.S.  I am sorry that I didn't get to say goodbye to you today 201.  I was sent home early to keep from infecting you all.  I will work hard at resting this weekend.  I may not be off to a very good start. Goodnight!