Teacher Value

This weekend in N.B. there were excellent presentations regarding curriculum. I was extremely impressed with the passion each presenter displayed. Although many different subjects were chosen for curriculum "disection", one common theme was revealed. The value of caring, interested teachers is critical. Teachers drive the curriculum. If anyone thinks differently, ask students what classes they learn the most and like to attend, the answer is how teachers work with the students. A true teacher will find ways for students to learn and will continue to learn their practice. Applause for teachers!!!

What's in a Grade?

In the Saturday edition of the Star Phoenix, there was an article about giving marks as grades in math. Many teachers in the public system are no longer giving a percent grade in grade 9 math. They believe too many students have received a 65% and feel defeated and the mark does not explain what they know and need to work on. One teacher made a comment that generations have received percent grades and want that form of reporting as they feel they understand it better. Since the Ministry requires a percent grade for credit classes in grades 10, 11, and 12 the concept of not giving a grade becomes a non issue. We are governed by a body that determines what we have to do. As we have discussed in class many times, post secondary requires grades from high schools. It seems we are spinning in circles and once again doing what is cost effective rather than what might be best for students. My belief is that a percent grade is still a good way of reporting if evaluation and assessment are done correctly. Too often a grade is made up of an assignment, term exams and a final exam. Surely, something else occurred in the classroom.