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Great ideas everyone. One strategy to utilize MAP data to individualize instruction can be found at http://ddi-teacher-consulting.com/. These strategies, not lessons, have significantly improved student learning and positively impact student growth.

I'm looking for an "at a glance" document that shows what is assessed in each strand for reading a math. The Des Cartes continuum is great, but overwhelming for parents and teachers new to MAP. Does anyone have something like this?

We are using individual student data cards. I keep it simple so the students can record their RIT score and compare Fall-Winter-Spring. We have set up a reward system for students that improve 1,2 or 3 areas - reward accordingly. I have also taken the time to visit with each student the increase or decrease in their scores and how they can improve or continue to. The problem I had today was explaning to a high percentile over achieving student why he decreased severly in all areas, yet still ranked high. I read the article discussing Negative Growth and do not find it applicable. The student took an adequate amount of time on the test. I still rewarded the student for mainting in the high percentile and high average marks on all areas and made sure he understood that negative growth isn't always bad. Wish I had a better answer for him though!

Thanks for your comments "Mark" and "kplummer" - great insights and sharing of classroom practices!

We have started using individual data cards for students for both reading and math. These cards are color coded based on their RIT score and the subtests for both reading and math.  Teachers are finding these a great tool for interventions and differentiation in the classroom especially during math and literacy centers.  Students with similar  strengths or weakness can be grouped together. Parents are also pleased with this format. We are so excited with the idea of handing these cards to next years teacher and they will know which students need interventions and/or enrichment from day one.

Are other schools/districts using individual student data cards?

One of the items that I find interesting is that you can use project based lessons and still see marked improvement in the student's state standardized scores as well as the long term growth seen in their MAP scores. I think a lot of teachers fall into the trap of thinking of the test as the end to a means and not seeing it as an insight to gain perspective on a student's needs and weaknesses. You can adjust your lessons to fit the DesCarte model.

I also found that using the test data I could influence self discipline, and this in turn helped the classroom flow more easily and freed up time for enrichment type activities.

Hi Michelle,

In the description for those particular lesson plans, it let's you know that to view the .notebook lesson plans requires you download the smartboard software they were created for. There is a free download.

I've put the description here for your convenience:

The lessons were created for use on interactive whiteboards (our district uses SMART board), however, the SMARTboard lessons are also compatible with other interactive technology. The lessons are designed for a 20 minute session and the lesson plan pdf helps guide the teacher through the instruction with answers and questions to ask the students. If you only have access to the LCD projector and a computer you are still able to use the lessons. You can download a SMARTboard free trial at smarttech.com

Hope this helps,

Jennifer

I can't seem to open any of the notebook lessons.

Using MAP for goal setting is less about the RIT score and more about the learning needs of the student. Having been in some schools where the goal setting is all about the number (RIT score), students did see some growth in MAP scores. Having also been in schools where the goal setting used RIT scores to identify the instructional needs of the student, the learning that occurred seemed to be greater…and the conversations different. The conversation between students and teachers seemed more about instructional targets than the MAP score. Students talked about what they needed to work on in geometry and in data and probability rather than just the number of RIT points they needed to show a year’s growth.

We are using MAP testing in our school district.  This has been the second year of testing and have been using the results as a guide to set up indivudual learning plans for my students.  I am interested in more of the MAP system for setting goals.  I am new and want to know more.

I am interested in input from folks about goal seting in MAP.  I am concerned that teachers will view goal setting in MAP as an overemphasis in using MAP and think that we are using MAP to drive curriculum and to not merely inform instruction. Has anyone in an international school environment used goal setting? and how did you introduce this section to teachers?

We are working furiously to get all the materials ready to post!  It is exciting to hear you attended our session!  We have truly found addressing the students where they are is when you can see optimal growth for all students!

Check back in the next few weeks :)

Hi Christie and Jane,

I am implementing a enrichment and remediation program based on componenets of DesCarte and the studnts RIT ranges.  I remember hearing that you were going to post the balance of lesson plans sometime in July or August.  How is it coming.  I can't wait to see.  Thanks for your help.  Hopefully I can contribute equally at some point.

Greetings All,

Welcome to the wonderful world of NWEA !!!! YOu will love it ;-)