Lara Smetana

Earth Hounds: Dr. Xargle's Book of Earth Hounds and Seven Blind Mice

Mon, Mar 07, 2011 9:44 AM
Good practice for upper elementary

The authors clearly explain the difference between observations and inference. Making observations and inferences are important science process skills and understanding how the two contribute to scientific knowledge is critical to understanding the nature of science. The authors provide a variety of assessment tools that help students demonstrate such an understanding in both their own day-to-day experiences and in their science investigations. Because it is important for students to see the role and importance of both observations and inferences in scientists' work, it is critical for teachers to discuss this explicitly with students. Literature connections are especially useful for elementary teachers.

Designing Assessments

Wed, Jan 26, 2011 10:47 AM
2009 results and test items are now available

This is an update to a previous review. The 2009 results and sample test items have been released. NSTA hosted a web seminar for those interested in learning more about the test and the 2009 science score report. The web seminar is archived and available at: http://learningcenter.nsta.org/products/symposia_seminars/NAEP/webseminar.aspx

Designing Assessments

Tue, Jan 18, 2011 9:00 AM
New to NAEP? This is a great starting place.

The authors acknowledge the challenge of creating effective questions that probe for deep conceptual understanding of science topics. The NAEP questions need not function solely as test prep for standardized tests; they can be embedded into instruction throughout the year as diagnostic, formative and summative assessments. The article outlines specific strategies for doing so, including how to carefully analyze student responses. Note: Samples from the 2005 NAEP tests are now available at http://www.nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/itmrlsx/