In the age of educational reform and changes; data is king. In my very short career so far (3 years), I have been very unsure of myself when it comes to the utilization of data. It is not that I didn't know how to use it; I struggled to create an organized format that could help me in creating my unit plans while keeping essential learning skills in mind. This blog post is simply me sharing my use of a data chart to keep myself organized when it comes to structuring my unit plans around the needs and multiple learning styles of my students at Whiteland Community High School.
When I create lesson plans for a particular unit I consult my data planning chart in how much variety I can/am providing to my students in their expression of how they are progressing and learning. Data charts can help provide focus in comparing units, making adjustments, and correcting problematic areas for the next lesson. The data charts act as a cover sheet for the areas to focus on as student’s progress through the year. The key for creating a roadmap for units is to make it as dynamic as possible so that it can be adjusted and used in multiple subject areas, units, etc. The key to remember is that this is not a unit or a “sign your life away” contract, it is a means of self-assessment in terms of the types of activities, assessments, rigor, and overall teaching methods that you are doing.
Creating data charts as a department or grade level can lead to productive conversations with colleagues in how to develop stronger and more effective assessments/lessons around essential learning standards. By unifying academic data targets, departments can strive to hold each other accountable to their classroom practices and efforts. Structuring units with the end in mind or with “checkpoints” can lead to a positive response on the parts of students and their efforts in the classroom.
Posted By Justin Brownfield, WCHS Social Studies Teacher
Creating data charts as a department or grade level can lead to productive conversations with colleagues in how to develop stronger and more effective assessments/lessons around essential learning standards. By unifying academic data targets, departments can strive to hold each other accountable to their classroom practices and efforts. Structuring units with the end in mind or with “checkpoints” can lead to a positive response on the parts of students and their efforts in the classroom.
Posted By Justin Brownfield, WCHS Social Studies Teacher