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http://www.tbrnews.com/articles/2010/02/25/manhattan_beach_news/news05.txt
Christopher Miko is doing a great job creating student interest in science, especially space science.
He made some comments on standardized tests, too:
Miko said he is currently rewriting his curriculum to focus less on acing standardized tests. Here's what the above-referenced article stated:
“I don’t feel the way I’m required to teach in the classroom is the best way to be teaching. It’s so standardized test-oriented,” he said.
While the Manhattan Beach Unified School District is the fifth-highest performing district in the state, it doesn’t mean students understand the information, he said.
“They may have memorized those facts for those tests but they don’t really get it … the depth of information.” http://www.tbrnews.com/articles/2010/02/25/manhattan_beach_news/news05.txt, Accessed 2-24-2010.
It is true that higher order thinking skills (HOT skills) are needed to, "know," any subject, but, standardized tests do get a bad rap quite often. These standardized tests cover just the starting material. Students should not be afraid of them. We should not contribute to fear of test-taking.
That being said, the 4-H concept of, "Learn by doing," is a wonderful concept to apply to science. I believe that is what Miko's teaching and comments show.
As for his students, carry on. Keep up the good work. Think deeply. Try using HOT skills.
More discussion on Literacy and Tests
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