Purpose Statement
Students will feel that they have successfully digested an
entire chaper of material and will have a sense of completion if they can pass
an informal test on the material.
Description of
Activity
A non-graded "practice test" is given at the end
of each week of class, following a chapter of material. The tests are completed
in small groups, with much discussion and open notes and books. The answers are
agreed upon. Students are allowed to keep the practice tests but must arrange
to make copies for group members. The midterm exam questions come from this
pool of practice test questions.
Materials Needed
Instructor prepares practice test on the chapter material
(possibly test questions are available from text test bank) and provides each
group of 2-4 students with one test. Tests are true/false, multiple choice,
fill-in and matching questions.
Application
Practice test is done at end of class with about 1/2 hour
remaining in class period. Students are encouraged to move desks to form
groups. Tests are handed out at random (that is the same person does not always
get the test each week) to small groups when they are formed. Students cannot
work alone, as usually those who are reluctant to join a group are the ones who
really need to talk to other students. Occassionally I have had a student who
becomes a "group of one" where I tactfully say I am "respecting
their learning style" because no one else in room is willing to work with
that student. Sometimes students need to leave early (sick child at home, they
are sick, etc.) and then I simply hand them a practice test to take with them
as they leave. This is not OK on a regular or repeat basis. Sometimes I gently
ask a group if another student may join them, and then help with the desk
moving and introductions to break the ice.
As groups complete the tests I encourage them to compare their answers with
other groups that are done. This is when the good discussion begins. By the
time the entire room agrees on every answer we have had much page turning,
re-reading, vocal explanations with rationale and some good humor. I finish
with calling out the numbered questions and having students in turn say the
answer, to make sure everyone now agrees. Class is dismissed. At his point
there is a strong feeling of accomplishment. Students are encouraged to make
copies for group members so that everyone has the practice tests to study from
later for the midterm. I have no extra practice tests and do not provide any
after this time.
Related Student
Services
Copy machines are available for student use in library.
this
web page was created on 6/9/99 at 10:40:35 PM
and modified on 6/9/99 at 10:40:35 PM