Have you ever wondered why some schools writing scores were over 80 percent proficient while their reading scores were less than 20? Which begs the question can kids read what they wrote?
Well for years many schools could count on the practically free points from the FCAT writing portion of the test because the graders didn’t look for quality of writing they looked for a formula. Topic sentence, and three supporting sentences. Things like grammar, punctuality and making sense didn’t matter.
Well they made a few changes to the grading formula this year and as a result scores have plummeted. What changes did they make? Well according to the Times Union.
Students were scored on spelling, grammar and punctuation. In addition, the exam required that students do a better job using logical arguments, supported by pertinent details, in their essays.
Wow I don’t know whether to me more appalled at the huge drop in scores or what qualified as a well-written essay in the past. It is no wonder we are in such trouble.
Welcome to Florida where the FCAT is king.
Read more at Jacksonville.com: http://jacksonville.com/news/florida/2012-05-14/story/state-fcat-writing-scores-shockingly-low#ixzz1ut0Dkttp
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