Becky Hulse Kindergarten Practicum Work Sample: The Five Senses

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Uses of Assessment Data

 

In this situation with being in a Kindergarten classroom, I find it somewhat hard to give very much feedback and explanation about the results of the unit.  I think I did the right thing by putting keeping all of my students work and putting it into one portfolio so the students, along with their parents can see what they have learned and all the activities that we did. 

With having the portfolios, I think that it is good to meet briefly with each individual student and show them their portfolio, the materials in it, and most importantly the progress that they made throughout the unit.  I think it is a great opportunity to praise each student for their success and let them know that I am proud of them.  Also, I would thoughtfully and encouragingly show the students their strengths and weaker areas, mentioning to them that they can even work harder on using scissors and writing their names, getting their letters looking really nice. 

With this age I think it is easier to inform and collaborate with parents/guardians than it is with the students, because the parents/guardians are more aware of how their child did, their strengthens and their weaknesses.  At the beginning of my unit I sent out a letter to parents/guardians introducing myself to everyone and letting them know that I was going to teach a unit in class and gave some brief information about that. 

I think letters home are a great way to stay in touch with families and their students progress, especially after finishing up a fairly large unit, I think that parents would appreciate a little note home telling them that their child did great in the five senses unit, here are some friendly reminders of what their child could be working on at home during weekends and/or Christmas break.  I think that would be a positive, welcoming way to show parents that I really care about their child and I want to give them the best education I possibly can.  Also, letting parents know that I am always happy and available to meet with them for a quick meeting before or after school.  Again, shows my dedication and my willingness to meet and discuss anything with families.

In the future I now realize how much more organized and prepared I need to be for assessing.  I feel that I was extremely prepared for the lessons and assessment procedure, but I do not feel like I was ready for analyzing the data.  I know that now after this first work sample, I have a much better feel and idea for what I will do next time.  I will think about all aspects of assessing, not just the materials and giving the assessment, I have to think further into what results I want to see, how can I reach these goals, how can I cater to every student, while still challenging them. 

I have learned a large amount of useful information through this first work sample and I look forward to using my new found knowledge on my next one.  

Author: Rebecca Hulse
Last modified: 12/10/2010 8:53 PM (EST)