Math Level 3 Student Reflections

This Spring we took some time to hold focus groups with a sampling of students that had participated in the Math Level 3 pilot- learning through the math continuum.  Here were just a few things they shared about this year in math:
-They loved the conferencing, it really helped them know their individual next steps in progress and they love the time with their teacher to talk Math
-The immediate feedback on their work was valued, they loved being able to check in with a peer or teacher to get that on the spot feedback
-Many felt they were able to move faster through the content and felt more confident in the retention of the content
-They loved the ownership of the learning, many commented they felt they selected what they learned versus being told what they would learn
-A key that many noted was the ability to do peer learning.  Taking time to share and learn with classmates was a huge benefit for them

A few areas they wanted to share for improvement were:
-They wanted harder math.  They want activities that took them deeper into the concepts.
-The selected videos were not always engaging, some mixed reviews on the videos
-Many wanted even more teacher interaction

Overall, both the teacher and student feedback collection showed very positive gains.  We are eager to compare the math summative data over the summer.  Thank you to all who took the risk on level 3 this year.  We are so proud of the work you and your students have accomplished.  Thank you

Thoughts for Summer EC-5

As we move into our last days of school, I wanted to share a few things to ponder this summer (yes while sitting by the pool or flying down the river on a boat, think of these):

-Which content area will I want to represent during the proficiency table creation next year
-What are the best ways to communicate with my teammates progress on the tables if we divide and conquer
-As you think about your I can statements which ones would you say are your cornerstone ones, which really show progress and which are an absolute for progress to the next grade to be made

If you take time to reflect on a few of these things prior to the kick off on August 12th you will be ready to hit the ground running.   We hope you all have an excellent summer and come back refreshed and ready to go in August!