Merit Pay Did Not Raise Test Scores-Hmmm.

[KinderCowgirl]

Read this article yesterday-talks about merit pay not encouraging teachers to raise test scores. In my opinion-duh.

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcont...2.4b96aa0.html

We actually participated in this-and I can't say it made me teach any better knowing that if my student's made the gains expected I would get a small bonus. I think the good teachers are already doing everything they can and the not-so-good teachers often somehow pull out high test scores anyway-even if it's just because all they do is teach the test. I really don't like how the article even says teachers were expected to "push" for higher test scores and they chose schools who were already doing well to participate.

Anyway, thought it was interesting.

[Hoot Owl]

I think "Duh" too. Hope some politicians pay attention to this.

[Sarge]

A simple way to raise student achievement.

# of HS seniors who go to four year colleges goes up = school board can run for re-election.

# of HS seniors who go to four year colleges goes down = school board cannot run for re-election.

Let's place accountability on those who REALLY have their hands on the controls.

[Sarge]

BTW, at my school, we stopped teaching science and social studies in grades K-3 because those grades don't get tested in those subjects.

[MrsC]

Originally Posted by Sarge

BTW, at my school, we stopped teaching science and social studies in grades K-3 because those grades don't get tested in those subjects.

I am shaking my head in disbelief.

[JustMe]

Too many school have adopted that appproach, Sarge, which I find very sad...and stupid, of course.

[HMM]

Originally Posted by Sarge

BTW, at my school, we stopped teaching science and social studies in grades K-3 because those grades don't get tested in those subjects.

Um...that's not good.

[catnfiddle]

Talk about teaching to the test! If there were an emoticon for nausea, I'd throw that in. The closest I can find is .

[TeacherGroupie]

Ceasing to teach science and social studies in K-3 because they don't get tested is wildly counterproductive. When are kids supposed to get the vocabulary and background knowledge they'll need to have already when those subjects do start getting tested? And what will they do in the meantime if a passage on the test happens (as it will) to involve a topic having to do with science or social studies?

[MrsC]

In addition, the way to reach many of our lower or reluctant students is through science and social studies topics. I have had many students who refused to pick up a book in English, but would devour books about Ancient Egypt during Social Studies periods.