https://www.edutopia.org/article/7-ways-to-build-a-learner-centered-classroom
Grades as Journey, Not Hyperbole
I am getting tired of grades being labelled as the bad guy in education. While they are not my favourite aspect of teaching, and in fact, way down the list, I cannot figure out why so many educators continue to vilify them. The above statements might come as a big surprise to many of you. … Continue reading Grades as Journey, Not Hyperbole
But are you an island?
Last year, at the end of one of my presentations on proficiency sequences, during the question-and-answer period, a participant paid me a compliment. They told me how impressed they were by my attention to detail and how usable my proficiency sequences seemed to be. My cheeks flushed slightly, and I expressed my gratitude for sharing … Continue reading But are you an island?
Connecting Engagement with Equity
Over the past year, a group of colleagues and I have invested some time exploring Joe Feldman’s Grading for Equity. In this phenomenal book, Feldman explores inequitable practices that have been historically ingrained in school culture and explains how shifting to more equitable practices beginning with sound and unbiassed assessment practices can lead to positive … Continue reading Connecting Engagement with Equity
I’d like a number 1 meal, light on the equality, extra equity
At McFast, a new fast-food joint with a fresh name, employees are training in all things fast food before being put on the line. Before opening their doors, each employee goes through training in various areas of the restaurant. In week one, employees are trained on French fries: how to drop them into the hot … Continue reading I’d like a number 1 meal, light on the equality, extra equity
Extending Our View of Extending
Lately, as I've engaged in conversations in person, webinars, works, and social media, I’ve noticed hesitancy about last level on proficiency scales. You know the one. It's called Extending, Exceeding, Advanced, Exemplary, Expert, or Mastery on a four- or five-point scale. The level that comes just before this last level is called Meeting, Applying, Proficient … Continue reading Extending Our View of Extending
A Proficiency Sequence in Action
In my post, "I want to change the world one proficiency sequence at a time,” I explained that with regards to proficiency sequences, “the real beauty is in how unpacking the standard and developing the process gives teachers the chance to teach each level.” A proficiency sequence, then is a useful tool for students, but … Continue reading A Proficiency Sequence in Action
I want to change the world, one proficiency sequence at a time
I’m aware of the hyperbole in the title. The world is a big place. The world is…THE WORLD. When I started writing this piece, I considered toning it done to, I want to change learning, one proficiency sequence at a time. I contemplated, I want to change education, one proficiency sequence at a time. I … Continue reading I want to change the world, one proficiency sequence at a time
Because we all need supports
We all need supports. I can’t live without the "Reminders" application on my phone which I use to remind me that I need to grab milk after school or that there’s a great Twitter chat coming up. I use the "Calendar" application as well, so I don’t forget to pick up my kid from soccer … Continue reading Because we all need supports
Striving to Assess the Write Way
Striving to Assess the "Write" Way Last quarter, while I was sitting alone in my room, a former student of mine came to chat with me. She had been in my English 11 New Media class last year and was currently wrestling with English 12, eagerly anticipating graduation which was just a few short weeks … Continue reading Striving to Assess the Write Way
my growth mindset 