Chapter 8

Tovani, C. (2004). Do I really have to teach reading?: Content comprehension, grades       6-12. Portland, ME: Stenhouse.

Summary: This chapter talked about giving tests and ways to learn about your students.  Tovani suggested that tests not be just learning information and spiting it out, but rather explaining and applying what you have learned. There are multiple answers on her tests and as long as your try and put some effort in it, you will do fine.

 This chapter was a little tougher to read through so I had to reread some of the material, slow down and remember situations in my life that related to the story, or imagined myself in her situation. I thought about how Tovani structured her “tests” but I would not be able to apply that style to an actual test because students need to know the information and be able to do it correctly. There are not multiple answers to math problems like there are to English questions. But one way that I could incorporate giving students points for trying and working hard is on their homework. As long as the students showed that they had attempted every problem and tried to work through it, I would give them credit. Sometimes there are problems that you just cannot figure out, and I understand that.  Another idea that I liked was having a calendar or different ways to get to know the students. I would be able to use the weekly calendar for the students to ask questions they did not know, or for them to reflect on things they understand or are having trouble with. They also give me feedback as to what activities they would like to see or what they would like to learn about or go more into detail with. It would also be a good way to find out why the students like or dislike math so much so that I could aid those who need more help and could help change their misconceptions about math.