Mon+3-26

What does academic achievement mean? How do we know when students learn? What should students learn?

Before Class:

Read the following: 1).

She says, "We do not have an achievement gap; we have an education debt" (Ladson-Billings, 2006, p. 5). What does she mean by this? When we use the word gap, who is positioned as needing to catch up? Who is behind? Whose fault is it?

In pairs, discuss your responses to the above questions, then choose one quote from the article to talk about, question it, apply it to real life, and unpack its consequences for the educational practice. Be prepared to share your quote and responses with the class.

2.) (Read p. 6-9)

What do you think about this bilingual model for increasing achievement?

In your same pair, discuss the recommendations for implementing this model. For instance how would you identify need for support? What formative assessment could you use? What do you think about the 1 minute reading exam for validating support? What about planning? Their recommendations sound very phonetic, what do you think this?

3.) Now I want you to think really hard!

What if there were no standardized tests in K-12 schools? What if there were not testing requirements to enter college? What if education was paid for from K-16 (that includes a bachelor's degree)? What if the US designed a K-16 educational system that ensured a free space for every person? However, are there even enough jobs to employee all these future graduates? What are the continuing problems with our models of education and work?

Come with some responses these questions!

4.) Okay let's discuss your group project!

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