Action+Research+Plan


 * PROBLEM**: After examining the results of the Dakota STEP tests on eMetric, I decided that several areas of weakness in reading skills needed to be addressed . These weaknesses included comprehension strategies, understanding literary elements and literary devices, comparing texts from various cultures, time periods, and geographical locations, using reference sources for information, and identiflying persuasive texts.


 * QUESTION**: Will integrating the use of technology while working on a project improve student achievement in all assessed areas of reading?

focus on. To accomplish my goals, I decided I needed to use both fiction and nonfiction reading materials. I would use the Smartboard for activities to strengthen the students' understanding of literary elements and literary devices. Students would use computers and other resource materials such as almanacs, atlases, and encyclopedias to strengthen their abilities to use reference sources. They would use the 21st century skills of collaboration and creativity to design a wiki page after they completed their research. To finish their project, the students would use persuasive text in writing and performing a commercial or creating a travel brochure. Formative assessments would be used to measure their progress.
 * PLAN OF ACTION:** First I will administer Achievement Series tests to determine which reading standards to


 * REFLECTION**: Many of the students were very motivated to research National Parks on the Internet as a part of their project. Students were often reluctant to use other books, encyclopedias, almanacs, and atlases without encouragement from me. If I would do a research project like this again, my requirements would more clearly state sources that needed to be included. During the final assessment, I know that a couple of students were not as familiar with the reference materials as I had hoped. Some students were frustrated with pictures, color, text, etc. while designing their wiki page which allowed other students to be quite helpful. I enjoyed hearing student requests, "Can we work on our projects today?"


 * IMPLICATIONS FOR THE FUTURE** : I will continue to analyze data from standardized test results, to use pre and post tests to assess student achievement, and to incorporate technology to motivate student learning. Next year I plan to use the discussion board more extensively not only for student feedback, but also to teach some writing skills. I also plan to use my Flip Camera more often.. The students this year enjoyed video recording at the end of their project. Some good suggestions for using flip video were offered in a session at the TIE wokshop this spring that I'd like to try next year. I hope to continue to become a more effective teacher who implements 21st century skills throughout all of the learning experiences.