PAST TRAINING/EXPERIENCES AS STARTING ASSETS

[Mary Richards]

I bring loads 'o experience with team teaching. I am a teacher leader for the TESST Project through the EdTech TIE2 grant for the MyAccess! online essay program. My understanding of this project is that all participants will be using the program in their classrooms for the purpose of 9th grade language arts and social studies team-teaching the writing process. I am here to help and assist! I have also been working with Assessment and Curriculum and teach courses on how to help teachers learn how to create effective assessments to help monitor and shape our learning communities. I am happy to share my knowledge in this realm, as well.

[amyhabb]

Mary, I could use a few practical ideas about how to use MyAccess! in the classroom. I'm having trouble with the "grading" aspect...my students (reg 9s) have a hard time believing that if the computer gives them a high score that I am "being fair" by reducing it. I've used rubrics, explained that a computer doesn't always catch everything and doesn't understand intent. They just aren't buying it, and it is souring our experience.

Also, I need some practical help on the revision planning...

And grading.

How are you?

Amy

[Mary Richards]

Amy, so sorry it has taken me so long to reply. Mardell let me know there was a message but for some reason, I didn't get there was a message and then when I logged on earlier in the month, I didn't see it. I don't find the NING very reader friendly, too busy or something or quite possibly it's just me.

Would it be possible for me to come out to South and meet with you and look at some of your writing samples and talk about how you are assessing them? I believe there is release time for me to do this as a TIE teacher leader. I would also love to help you in terms of revision. Let me email Martina Henke and find out. Would there be other teachers who would like to meet, too?

I am really having a great year. I still miss my South English buddies very much but ER is a great school and community! How is your daughter? Emery is growing so fast, almost a year! I'm sure you understand. I am loving motherhood!