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> *