Questions & answers from teacher

Elowena Camacho

ED 450-01

Ms. Soledad

10/15/2012

Interview with Mrs. Divine Delacruz

WSR Elementary school 1^st grade

1. How do you assess your students with special needs?

It is based on the I.E.P. And from there, she sees what modifications and accommodations she can make based on the individual’s I.E.P. normally; these students’ assessments tend to be a bit easier.

2. As a teacher in training, what do I need to know about assessment?

Grouping strategies, and the different tiers, which include tier 1, 2 and 3. I should be aware of what kinds of assessments to use for different tiers that are still based on the same topic.

3. What are several ways you assess your students?

Based on the common core standards, she uses the daily 5 strategy. In addition, she uses small grouping, one on one, interview, observation, cafe, and oral assessments.

4. What is the purpose of assessing students?

To measure a student’s café (comprehension, accuracy, and fluency)

5. What is the difference between common core and CNMI standards and benchmarks?

Common core is an alignment with state wide standards. The CNMI standard is only addressed within the CNMI. But title I requires that PSS aligns its standards with common core in order to get money.

6. How do we assess without stressing out?

It is inevitable and unavoidable because you have to assess different groups. PSS can’t provide enough materials which causes her to look for materials with her own funds.

7. Does PSS have a certain guideline for assessing?

Common core is basically your guideline. However, that is only for math and english.

8. What is your biggest challenge when it comes to evaluating your students?

It would be when evaluating students who are in tier 3, especially those with special needs because you have to look for different assessments. These students also need more extended assessments and accommodated assessments.

9. Why is assessment important?

To measure understanding and their café.

10. What type of assessments do you prefer and why?

It depends on the kind of activity she is assessing because you have to follow common core. And it also depends on what tier the students are in.