Parents wonder about Common Core in kindergarten
Parents want some answers about what the Common Core is and how it is playing out in their schools with their children. Sometimes, there are no answers yet, but give teachers a chance.
Language Arts
Is this fetus learning language in the womb?
Some new research suggests that fetuses may form some memories about language, a finding that could have implications when it comes to dyslexia and other language-learning deficiencies.
What many Md. teachers think of the Common Core
The Md. State Dept. of Ed. produced a video, ostensibly focused on the start of the school year, but in reality, it looks at the Common Core, the biggest news this year in education.
Cursory glance at young reader app 'Learn with Homer'
A "learn to read" app is evaluated in the NY Times. We agree with their findings that Learn with Homer is engaging and can help very young children develop good reading skills.
Pearson misreports scorecards on Va. alternate test
A score lookup function failed at Pearson on alternate, portfolio-based assessments given by Virginia, and there has been some fallout from that fiasco.
Student newspaper produced at summer writing camp
A summer writing camp in St Louis means kids get to see their hard work pays off when it comes to producing an actual newspaper.
Peoria SD 150 hosts workshop on Common Core
Workshops this summer have helped teachers prepare to teach the English/language arts standards in the Common Core, adopted by almost every state.
Baltimore City looks into charges of grade changing
Teachers in one Baltimore City middle school have been accused of changing student grades so students who would normally be held back can be promoted.
Md. should end the teaching-testing disconnect
An op-ed piece in the Baltimore Sun calls on Maryland to adapt its standardized tests so that they are aligned with the Common Core, which is what teachers are actually teaching.
Reading now may boost your brainpower in old age
Reading or other activities that stimulate the brain, such as writing, may help your memory as you get older. Keep up with those "mentally stimulating activities" early and late in life.