Math Quiz and other thoughts

This week was an interesting one in 6We.  Students recently had their first real "test" of their knowledge in Math with a quiz on Factors and Factorization.  Needless to say, there were a lot of nerves going into it, as students wondered what to expect.  As their teacher, I always wonder what to expect too.  I ask myself many questions - did I explain the concepts clearly?- did they have enough practice?- do they know how to study? 

After the quizzes were returned there were lots of crestfallen faces, and a few proud and content ones.  Although there were very strict guidelines about sharing of their marks- students are not allowed to ask how someone did, but are free to share in a respectful manner without bragging or put-downs- it was obvious to all students that there was a wide range of achievement. Students were given the opportunity to immediately investigate their responses, check their notes and begin corrections.  There were still a lot of tears, and exclamations of frustration.  As students began to research what it is they don't yet know or what it is they struggle with, those exclamations were replaced by cries of "oh" and "I get it now". 

Students were assigned quiz corrections as homework and were told there would be a quiz rewrite two days later.  When they arrived to class and were given the same quiz, and told they could use their original quiz and corrections to complete the re-write, the students were immediately buzzing with excitement.  Those students that neglected to do the corrections as assigned, or who left them at home, were a little less so.

Both Mrs Wood and I have worked extensively with the class the past few days around the concept of "ownership of learning" or constructivism.  Students have begun to see that the responsibility of learning lies with the learner, and that they have the tools and the power to understand what they don't yet know.  Students have begun to realize that while "mom wants me to ask for extra help", that they too have the power to ask.

Unsuprisingly, the results of the quiz rewrites were terrific.  Those students who neglected to do or bring their corrections have an additional day to do so, so they may too complete their re-write.  Will all future quizzes and tests in grade 6 be conducted the same way?  Probably not, but the students of 6We now realize the purpose of tests aren't to see what they don't know, but are there to encourage them to take charge and that they are responsible for, and capable of, their own achievement.

Winter's here!

Well, it looks as if I am having a bit of trouble trying to achieve my goal of blogging every day...  No worries, though, I'll keep at it.  I realize now that it's just going to take a little practice and a few small changes in my daily routine to make it work!

Now that the winter weather has officially arrived, I'd like to remind students to dress appropriately for the cold weather.  Toques and mittens are a must, and we've had a number of students arrive at school without proper footwear.  Wet, cold socks make learning difficult!

Creature Feature

The past few days, 6We has been busy designing and building creatures in science class.  Mrs Wood has assigned each student a habitat to investigate and students have designed creatures adapted specifically for each one.  Despite a apocalyptic paint spill, the process has been moving smoothly.  Take a look at some their creations, in various stages of "evolution", below.

Kid Blogs!

I am excited to share that our class has been busy learning how to create and maintain their own blogs! 

Blogging is an authentic form of writing, where students post writing that is relevant to their lives and audience.  Students are also learning how to leave helpful and insightful comments, typing, editing, and valuable digital citizenship skills.

Come visit, read, and comment!

http://kidblog.org/MsWelbergensClass2012/

Halloween!

Halloween is always a busy day at school. The school parade, as always, was entertaining. It was great to see all the inventive and fun costumes! Thanks to Mrs Ferguson for organizing delicious snacks for our party, and thanks to all students who brought board games to play. After a busy night of tricks and treats, I hope everyone is well rested for the day! :P