I have a couple thoughts:

1. Come join the conversation in the #ELAOK Facebook
group<https://www.facebook.com/groups/422720804463838/>.
Teachers have used it to share their thoughts and strategies in regards to
the writing test.

2. Please, share your concerns/comments/suggestions with the Office of
Assessment. Their contact information is at the bottom of the Test Support
page <http://ok.gov/sde/test-support-teachers-and-administrators> on the
OSDE website, but if you prefer to call, the number is 1 (405) 521-3341.

-
*Josh Flores*
Director of Language Arts



On Sat, Mar 30, 2013 at 11:40 AM, Zena Lewis <[log in to unmask]>wrote:

> I also teach 8th grade.  I'm very concerned about the writing prompt. I
> would love to hear thoughts and ideas.
>
> Zena Lewis
> Newman Middle School
> Skiatook Public Schools
>
>
> On Sat, Mar 30, 2013 at 10:59 AM, Leah Esker <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
>
>> Hi. I am curious about everyone's thoughts about this the changes in this
>> year's OCCT writing prompts. My 8th graders are really struggling, even my
>> more advanced writers. They can do it, but they still need lots of
>> scaffolding. They are not able to tackle these prompts independently enough
>> to make me feel comfortable going into Wednesday and Thursday.
>>
>> I have heard that the practice prompt and sample essay in the 8th grade
>> PTSG is more difficult than the English II EOI sample essay. I have not
>> researched this myself, but it would be an interesting analysis for a grad
>> student in English Ed.
>>
>> The scores are bound to go way down this year. I can already envision the
>> headlines! If other 5th and 8th grade teachers and parents are feeling the
>> same way as I am, wouldn't it be great if we could educate the public
>> somehow *before* the results come out. I don't really know where to start.
>> I just know that this test is keeping me awake at night. My 5th grade son
>> is really discouraged and my 8th grade students, who have shown amazing
>> writing growth this year, are losing confidence with each state prompt they
>> see.
>>
>> Any thoughts or ideas?
>>
>> Leah Esker
>> OWP TC, Class of 2000
>> 8th Grade English
>> Whittier Middle School
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
>
>
>


-- 
*Josh Flores
K20 Center - Literacy Specialist
The University of Oklahoma
(405) 283-2414
About Me <http://about.me/josh.flores>
*