Friday, September 23, 2016

At Discovery School we recognize that each student is unique. One Size Doesn’t Fit All. Each child learns differently. That is why 3 years ago we adopted an assessment tool that would enable us to measure the progress that each student makes in his or her grade’s curriculum.


MAP tests are computerized adaptive assessments that test differently, allowing teachers to see their students as individuals – each with their own base of knowledge.

MAP assessments provide detailed, actionable data about where each child is on their unique learning path. Because student engagement is essential to any testing experience, these tests offer the students test items that interest children and help to capture detail about what they know and what they’re ready to learn. It’s information teachers can use in the classroom to help every child, every day.
MAP dynamically adapts to a student’s responses – as they take the test. The tests present students with engaging, age-appropriate content. As a student responds to questions, the test responds to the student, adjusting up or down in difficulty.
· Answer a question correctly and the test presents a more challenging item
· Miss a question, and MAP offers a simpler item
In this way, the test narrows in on a student’s learning level, engaging them with content that allows them to succeed. The result is a rewarding experience for the student, and a wealth of detailed information for teachers, parents and administrators.
This week, for the first time, Discovery School is implementing MAP for Primary Grades

in grade one. These assessments combine diagnostic tests and survey assessments to give you insight into your K-2 students' knowledge of core math and reading. Using these tests, teachers can:
  • Assess achievement levels of early learners so they can spend more time teaching and less time administering individual diagnostic tests.
  • Provide rich information to begin guiding a student's academic career thereby increasing the chances for early academic success.
  • Identify the needs of all primary students and inform individualized instruction.
  • Encourage student participation with engaging test items.
If you would like more information, please visit http://www.nwea.org/ or ask your child’s teacher how this wonderful tool allows them to help your child in class.

Tuesday, September 6, 2016

20 Tips For Success In School


Here are 20 ways that will ensure that your kids and YOU have a great school year.
1. A child should eat a good breakfast every morning, Don't let them skip breakfast.
2. Wake them up early enough to get up on time so they are not tardy! Even if that means waking them up 15 or 30 minutes earlier than they used to wake up.
3. Be sure your child gets a good night's sleep. Turn in early.
4. Have them prepare all of their things the night before, including clothes, socks, shoes, booksacks, homework assignments in booksacks,etc. down to the finest details, even hair accessories.
5. Children should keep their bookbags, desks and rooms organized so they can find what they need easily and nothing gets lost.
6. Praise your children, encourage them, use positive reinforcement, work closely with them. Let them know that you are available to help if needed.
7. Create a study routine for your child. A good rule of thumb is to have them do their homework right when they get home.
8. Go over homework together.
9. Check their backpacks and folders for notes, missed assignments, library books, etc.
10. Promote healthy habits like healthy snacks, low in sugar, fresh fruits and vegetables.
11. Children should ask questions. Let them ask questions. That is how we learn.
12. A stress free child is a happy child. A happy child will do better in school.
13. Children should start reviewing notes at least three days before a test. Don't wait until the night before or worse, the day of the test to study for it.
14. Children should write down their assingments carefully. Have your children check their class blogs. Have the number of a few classmates and your child’s teacher in case they have doubts.
15. Parents should be a role model to their children. Your children learn from you. Be positive and supportive of the school system and teachers.
16. Have your child read to you often and regularly.
17. Have them put all of their things in their room right when they get home. This will alleviate the chances of losing or misplacing something. More time is wasted looking for a lost shoe or where they put their backpack.
18. Children should take notes when the teacher repeats something, tells them to write it down or that is very important or will be on a test, or if she writes it on the board. Encourage this habit in your child.
19. Remind your child to avoid cheating and being lazy. Encourage them to do their projects and assigments like reports, ahead of time. Teach them to study and learn, which will make them proud of themselves.


20-Remind your child to read all of the directions, follow directions, read the questions carefully during tests, and to double check their answers after they are done.