Political Crossfire Forums

For the sake of time and as a consequence of new policy that dings a teacher whenever students spend 'excessive' time on review, I've started to implement this grading procedure for tests. I want to get your thoughts because I'm conflicted.

Each student turns in a packet of answers. For regular science (biology or physics or whatever), most are multiple choice. Due to budget cuts, we don't have scantrons, and two of the scantron machines are broken. I don't care, really. I only relied on scantron for mid-terms and finals that were due in two days and could consist of 80 problems (department tests.. meh). I'm marking each sheet with a unique number. I have a single piece of paper that I lock up which tells me who "1C" really is. I then cut off the names from the answer packets and have kids from a different period grade. On the digital projector I place the test with the correct work and solutions. I also pause on problems that posed the most difficulty. They each sign their name on the paper and then print it in full.

We've been told to cut out going over tests, but I think it's essential for the learning process. I'm trying to compromise here by keeping them engaged while grading. Keep in mind I go over their work before submitting and returning grades. If a student misses more than one choice grading, I speak with them the first time. It's usually an honest mistake even if I go as slow as possible. If they miss more than one multiple times or they 'miss' more than three, I will ask them to stay after class to discuss why this occurred. I haven't had to enact either discipline decision, though. The kids enjoy grading and they're involved in the answer process. It's actually had a surprising effect on getting students to speak up and inquire about why something is wrong. They're defending 'someone else,' not themselves.

I checked to make sure the process is legal, but I wanted to see what your thoughts are about this step? Should I just skip over reviewing?

I'm really trying to move towards making more major projects based on e-portfolios that showcase their work (and independent but guided research projects), but for now I'm resorting to pen and paper tests. Woo biology and physics upcoming semester.

Amendment: I've talked with some parents but they didn't care.

Is this really to get someone to grade papers for you? lol

I think it's crucial for the learning process. Iv always done better in classes that made me correct my tests or work. You could even give them the graded test back and as homework have them correct the wrong answers.

You've been told to cut out going over tests.

I am keeping my child in charter schools and/or private schools as much as I can afford during their lifetime.

Growing up, alot of my teachers had us grade tests.

I purposely marked it wrong and behaved generally like a dickhead.

However, that was just me. Other kids seemed to enjoy it. Whether they derived any benefit, I dunno.