Data & Instruction

Data gathered from assessments and observation can help provide information about

student growth or other factors involved in student learning. In order to gather data it

must be organized, and clear. Data is also different depending on the question the teacher

may be looking to answer, and the form of assessment used to gather data. Ball and

Forzani (2011) say that, To facilitate learning, teachers must know their students well

not only their personalities and preferences, but also their ideas about subjects and their

ways of thinking about them, including their intellectual habits, misconceptions, and

interests. (p. 4) Through this research I believe it is important to incorporate a variety of

learning styles such as; Kinesthetic Learners, through the use of hands on practice; Visual

Learners, Through the use of Examples, and highlighting key terms; and Auditory

Learners: Through the use of verbal repetition and peer shares.

I will have a plan and stick to it when collecting, gathering, and storing data.
I will use data to improve my teaching and better understand factors in my

students learning. (Using the Multiple Measures)

I will look for opportunities for growth when looking at the data, without losing

sight of students achievement.

I will be intentional about analyzing and noting important patterns in data.
I will combine qualitative and quantitative data to understand my students

learning.
I will communicate data to the stakeholders thoroughly and within a reasonable

amount of time.
I will not allow data to become the students identity

Assessment & Grading

In general, assessment is important for the teacher to evaluate both the

effectiveness of their own teaching and the extent to which each child is learning. Wong
(2009) says, For the Effective teacher, recording what and how well students are doing

is essential in assessing and helping each student reach maximum learning capacity. (p.

138) When creating assessments, teachers should be creating assessments that are fair,

well structured, and avoid misconceptions. I will rely on Performance Assessments and

Personal Communication, but for many summative assessments it is also necessary to

incorporate the art standards. Short answer and extended written response formats could

reflect the goal of the original performance verbs within the standards effectively. It is

important for teachers to evaluate if their assessments are effective, quality, and balanced.

One method of evaluation is by running assessments against Sheldons (2008) 6

nonnegotiable quality filters. But by increasing the engagement of students, and thus

improving the feedback from the teacher, we can make a real difference (Wiliam, 2014,

19).

I will use a variety of assessments in order to give my students chances to show

their learning.
I will match my assessments to my goals and standards.
I will thoroughly test my assessments by using the six nonnegotiable quality

filters to create effective and quality assessments.

I will take the time to prepare my students for any summative assessments.
I will use formative assessment to help students self assess just as much as

helping me adjust my own instruction.

Classroom Management

I believe it is important for me to set clear boundaries and follow through

consistently, starting from the moment they walk in the door. I also will show my

students I care for them and am there to help them. I want to value my students ideas and

create an environment of mutual respect. Marzano says, Students cannot learn in a

chaotic, poorly managed classroom (2003) I will have a physical climate of organization

as well as encourage the same organization in my students. Linsin (2014) says, Instilling

a love for school affects and changes students like nothing else can or ever will,

improving effectiveness of virtually everything you do. (p.151) I want to show my

students I love being there and working with them to encourage them to have the same

love for the class that I do. The strengths of this management style will be evident in my

students growth of responsibility, self-concept, success, and teacher relationships. My

students will have choices in my classroom to feel they are in control of their learning

and take that responsibility for the consequences of choices in the classroom. (Love and

Logic, 2016) I believe classroom management practices are consistent, and followed

through everyday. Through the use of organized and explained Routines and Procedures,

I can manage my classroom to the best of my ability. Effective Classroom Management

will create successful students and great student-teacher relationships.

I will create a safe environment where students can share their confusion without

the fear of being reprimanded.

I will have a classroom where students have control of their learning.
I will create an organized classroom to encourage focus.
I will focus on strong student-teacher relationships.

References:
Ball, D. (2016). High leverage practices. Retrieved from:

http://www.teachingworks.org/work-of-teaching/high-leverage-practices

Gurian, M., & Stevens, K. (2004). With boys and girls in mind. Educational Leadership,

62(3), 21-26.

Leahy, S., Lyon, C., Thompson, M., & Wiliam, D. (2005). Classroom assessment minute

by minute, day by day. Educational Leadership, 63(3), 19-24.

LoveandLogic. (2016). How to Create a Love and Logic Classroom. Retrieved from

https://www.loveandlogic.com/articles-advice/educators

Linsin, M. (2014). Classroom management for art, music, and PE teachers. San Diego,

California: JME Publishing.

Marzano, R. J., & Marzano, J. S. (2003). The key to classroom management. Education

Leadership, 61(1), 6-13

Sheldon, T. (2008). 17 Quality Filters.

Kowalski, T. J., Lasley, T. J., & Mahoney, J. W. (2008). Data-driven decisions and

school leadership: Best practices for school improvement. Boston, MA: Pearson

Education

Wiliam, D. (2014). The right questions, the right way. Educational Leadership, 71(6),

16-19.

Wong, H. K., & Wong, R. T. (2009). The first days of school. Mountain View,

California: Harry K. Wong Publications Inc.