\doc\web\98\05\ealr1.txt
Date sent:        Fri, 24 Apr 1998 19:58:53 -0400
To:               cjo@ior.com
From:             Cindy Omlin <cjo@ior.com>
Subject:          10th Grade Assessement/EALRs


>From a math teacher on the state assessment and EALRs (per math/science
listserve)


Sender: owner-wa-math-sci@mickey.esd113.wednet.edu
Reply-To: wa-math-sci@mickey.esd113.wednet.edu


We gave the new 10th grade pilot test this week.  The math was some very
simple proportions, simple algebra (maybe pre-algebra), a couple of
problems that dealt with statistics/probability,  and surprisingly the
discussion questions weren't as hard as the 4th grade and/or 7th grade
tests, etc. I believe everyone at the testing center/state level is
realizing this outcome-based ealr test is headed for a disastrous end in
the legislature next year.  Those folks are not enthralled with all this
either.  I believe the ealr's have something to say, I also believe in
the testing; I do not believe that we should have spiraling mathematics
curricula that teach the same things at varying levels to all our
children.  At that rate even integrated math is awash-Integrated I, II,
and III don't teach the same things.  Besides, we won't need level III,
because if our best kids pass the certificate of mastery, they don't
need to be in high school anymore.  And they won't be!  For that large
majority that still doesn't pass, there won't be any certificate, but
they'll sure have a mark on their educational records: "Failed the 10
grade Certificate of Mastery Tests."


What's happening to 3000+ years of algebra, 2500+ years of geometry,
1500-2000+ years of trigonometry, 400+ years of calculus?  These are the
classes needed for U.S. students to compete world wide with other
countries in such tests as the TIMSS.  How do you create interest in
such a difficult subject as MATH (it's one of those 4-letter words to
many people)?  We need to reward and accelerate our best in math and
science; not try to beat them back into the pack!  As I see it, for all
practical purposes the EALR movement will destroy the junior and senior
years of our high schools.


Rod Roberts