Adjusting Lessons on "Basis of Assessment"

During our "20 Minute Topic" discussion earlier this week, we focused the conversation on what we want students to learn.  Throughout this discussion, I had the opportunity to listen to educators share their opinions on specifics that must be met in their classrooms. As they tried to determine what should be taught in the classrooms, I realized that the conversation had shifted to how we can get students engaged in learning.  They quickly agreed that one must be able to connect first and build relationships in order for students to feel comfortable with learning. 

 As I listened to their conversation, I started to think about what happens in a classroom when we lose students that we have developed relationships with.  What causes the student to become totally disengaged in the learning process?  Whatever it is, is this why students plateau and even begin to fall to the bottom after 15-25 minutes into the lesson? 

 During our next "20 Minute Topic" discussion, we will take time to discuss the importance of delving into how we assess learning in our classrooms.  Is our practice of assessment in the classroom the culprit in losing students?  Are we observing students showing more concern about finishing an assignment versus showing an understanding of learning? 

Please join our team of teachers on November 10th in the high school conference room or November 11th at Freeman Davis in the library area to discuss this important topic. The discussion will run from 7:30-7:50.

 
Tim Frederick
Superintendent
Mobridge-Pollock School District