Recent Changes

3rd meeting- SAT prep
Maybe instead of just questions on a test we can do different things in class. Have them summarize each section in a lesson as homework and then go over it the next day in class to make sure they are getting the correct info out of what they are reading. Or do a quick- pick a section summarize for classwork and turn it in. Pick one class a day instead of doing it for all 5 classes. Easier to grade if we do small chunks.

3rd meeting- SAT prep
I try to use some level 2 questions in the tests if I can find them. In the test maker program it shows what level each question is, many are level 1 and some level 2.

3rd meeting- SAT prep
We need to discuss how we as a department can assist with improvement of SAT scores. The students have scored very low this past year (10 out of the 11 high schools!). Our biggest weakness is reading comprehension. Are we using Carolyn D's words and questions of the day? Are we looking to write a few test questions that are styled like the SAT questions? Remember, most of the questions on the SAT are not knowledge level(level 1), but are at application or analysis levels (levels 3 & 4). Take a look at the Critical Thinking wheel that I put on your desk a few weeks ago. Take out a test(any test)that you give and look at the questions. Where do most of them fit in? What level are we testing? What level are we teaching?
Input......?

2nd meeting - UBD lesson plans
Your ideas on essential questions are good. Just try to write a unit plan using this format for one unit this nine weeks. You do not have to reinvent the wheel and redo the entire unit, just reorganize a little. See how it goes. I will request to see your "UBD-esque" unit (just add the essential questions! and redirect your results)after exams.

Please don't start a new thread right now. We need to focus on the UBD stuff. If you want to discuss something else, let me know first. Thanks. Lori
10/26/08 - Please look at the wikispace UBD discussion thread for directions to complete essential questions task before dept. meeting. We will meet as a department from 10am-11:30am on Monday November 3, 2008 in SAC office. Thanks.
12/1/08- New topic posted concerning SAT-type questions and ideas. We need to improve SAT scores overall, building-wide. Every subject area needs to begin focusing on preparing the students better for SAT tests. That will be our focus this week.

3.
III. Substance Abuse and Drug Prevention
1. How do drugs effect the body?
2. What are the long lasting effects on the body due to using drugs?
IV. Safety & Injury Prevention - First Aid/CPR

Essential Questions for each Health Unit - Level I
I. Social and Emotional Health
What are the various roles you play?
How important are your relationships?
What are the benefits of avoiding conflict?
How can you avoid conflicts?
II. Growth & Development - Body Systems
1. What are some benefits of exercise on the body?
2. How does cardiovascular exercise increase your overall health?
3.
III. CONFLICT RESOLUTION
1.
III. Substance Abuse and Drug Prevention
IV. Safety & Injury Prevention - First Aid/CPR