Edison Tests

Each month our classroom takes a standardized test on the computer, called the Edison test. We take tests in reading and math. These tests help provide teachers with data about individual students and the entire class, and it can help guide my instruction. In addition, it is a great opportunity to teach test-taking skills. Every month, we discuss different test-taking strategies that can help students be more successful on this test, as well as future tests they will take.

Last week, when we went to the Big Show Kickoff Assembly, Dr. Painter showed some data from third, fourth, and fifth grade students. We looked at graphs that showed their progress on the MAP test, as well the Edison tests. My students were pretty impressed with their progress.

Each month my students keep track of their own test scores, and they set personal goals for themselves on each test. We talk about if they personally are making progress and what strategies they can try to do even better next time. I had not this year discussed our class data. This week, as we got ready to take our Edison tests, I decided to share with them their class average data. Our math graph looked like this:

I asked the students if they thought we could improve, and they wanted to set a class goal of 90% for April. We then discussed test-taking strategies we could use. This is a combined list of the strategies they came up with for math and reading:
- Look back at the text before you answer questions. (reading)
- Underline the answer in the text and write the question number next to it. (reading)
- If your answer isn’t one of the choices, try the problem again. (math)
- Underline key words in the question.
- Eliminate the answers that you know are not true.
- Look at all parts of the text and question- including pictures, captions, and graphs.
- Make sure to read all of the answer choices.
- Read the text more than once.
- Make sure to answer every question.
- Have a growth mindset.
- TAKE YOUR TIME!

Everyone really took their time and did their best on both tests. They each had a few more difficult problems, and everyone worked through them using their strategies.

I am happy to report that their hard work paid off. Our results for April were (drum roll, please)......

93% in math
87% in reading!

Way to go, Bartin Bunch! I can't wait to see how we do in May! I bet we can get our reading score to 90% as well.