Gifts of Gold

Feedback is one of the greatest tools a teacher can wield to help students improve, but teaching students to look at their own learning and adjust has double the power.  Consider teaching students ways that they can check their work and you will give them a gift of gold!  Here are two examples: 


LEADER OF MY OWN LEARNING (Feedback, Discussion)
 
Description: Students keep track of their own learning by keeping a data record and reflecting upon it. “Research shows that when students track their own learning and data, they take ownership of their learning, have intrinsic motivation, and perform better on high-stakes tests.”- Kristine Nannini
 
Application: Use of a student-generated data tracker with reflection tool allows students to monitor and adjust their learning at any given time.
 
Process: Explain the purpose of a student data tracker and that it is not optional.  At the beginning of the course, remind students to enter data as they receive grades and to comment when needed (improvement strategy or reminder to retest, etc.). To make students accountable, occasionally require students to present tracker for a graded assignment. 

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STEP BY STEP PROJECT CHECK (Feedback, Writing, Collaboration, Discussion)
 
Description: Similar to the KWL chart, this graphic organizer specifically targets steps in a process or project in a meaningful and deliberate way.
 
Application: Use this graphic organizer when student accountability in a multi-step process or project is desired.
 
Process: Hand out graphic organizer (Addendum VV) to students (individual or groups) at critical points in a project.  Tell them to describe what they have accomplished thus far (discernment) and what they need to do next (prioritization).  Only after the priorities list has been accomplished will they reflect on how they did it (accomplishment). Ask for students to turn in sheet and use as a formative assessment.  If students are struggling with the project, direct them to review the priorities list.