Dramatic academic growth refers to the progress made by students that can be attributed to intentional teaching strategies and methodology. Dramatic academic growth can be measured using both quantitative and qualitative methods achieved through various forms of assessment and observation. Through analyzing data using quantitative strategies, student growth can be carefully tracked and measured throughout the year. In my class students are assessed on a state EOC (end-of-course) rubric in Civics and the FSA (Florida Standards Assessment) writing rubric. Using these standards for assessment, student data is recorded using ThinkGate tracking software. Through analyzing both individual and class trends in data, I am able to inform my instructional decision making according to student needs. Throughout this process students and families are briefed and invested in tracking their own data in order to achieve their goals. 

 

Qualitative assessments tend to be less formal in their data tracking, however occur regularly within the classroom. In my class students engage in regular P.O.S.E.S. political cartoon analysis and informal writing practices to hone in on their writing skills. In these junctures students have an opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned and gauge their progress. 

The links below connect  to both quantitative and qualitative methods of measuring student growth as well as teacher reflections on those strategies:

​