[MOSAIC] NWEA MAP

[Paula]

We test grades 3-5 once a year in the spring- reading, writing and math.  Our middle school tests in the fall and spring. 

carlsonca at dist102.k12.il.us wrote: How many times per year do you administer this?
Which subjects are tested?
I'm assuming you use this in grades 2-8?

Thanks.
Carol
> We currently use NWEA in our district.  We do not start using the NWEA,
> however, until second grade.  In kindergarten and first grade other
> non-computerized assessments are given.  I do like the NWEA for several
> reasons.  One, it shows growth.  So often we look at state testing and it
> only allows for passing or failing.  It doesn't show us where our students
> started and how far we've taken them.  Second, there is a lot of
> information that can be pulled from the website using your class data.
> There is strand data for students to pinpoint where they struggled or
> succeeded.  It can also make your guided reading groups using strand data.
>  Now, I don't suggest using that all year, but in the beginning of the
> year before you know your students those groups are a great starting
> point.  Third, it's quick.  There are times in the year, I set aside for
> the longer assessments such as the DRA, but this is quick information that
> I can use immediately.  Last, there is no way to prepare for it.  In my
> mind, I see that as a wonderful thing.  Why do we "prepare" these kids for
> tests?  We should just be doing the best job we can with them everyday,
> and that is more than all of the preparation they need.  So without
> prepping them, you can see exactly where they started and where they're
> going.  The two main assessments my district administrators look at are
> NWEA and MCA (our state test).  Now, if they're going to compare and look
> at data from those two tests, I want them to look at the one that shows
> them how my students have grown.
>
> All this said, it is still one test on one day.  Data and testing are
> necessary evils that I don't always agree with, and no test is going to
> explain our students better than we can.
>
> ________________________________
>
>
> Our district will begin using MAP in the fall as well, but I am cautious
> of the primary test because it is new.  I am not sure how K-1 students
> will do on a computer test.  We also used DIBELS, but have now shifted to
> AIMS Web as a screener.
>
> Annette
>
> In regard to Test Talk.  Are any of you in school districts where you are
> forced to give NWEA MAP levels tests?  I'm not sure they can be prepared
> for (which is a major shortcoming!), and I would LOVE to know how people
> do prepare their children for Levels tests.  Thanks for any info.
>
> I, too, would be interested in the MAP testing.  Our district will be
> using it beginning next fall.  As the Elementary Language Arts facilitator
> for the district, I am in the process of deciding which of our tests will
> be replaced by the MAP test.  So far we are looking at getting rid of
> GATES MCGINITE and some of our district made tests.  I'm hoping the
> principals will be willing to abandon DIBELS or at least limit its use.
>
>>From what little I know about MAP, I would say the best way to prepare
>> for such a test that shows growth is by effective teaching.  During our
>> consideration of MAP, we heard very little negative comments.
>
> Thank you,
> Barb
>
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