Looping

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Home : 2003 : January : 25

Looping
By Sue W

Relax! The needs of this group are the same as they have been! Several teachers in our building are looping for the first time this year. One thing they say is that it is such a tremendous advantage to really know their
students when starting the second year, both academically and behaviorally.You don't lose time trying to figure them out! These are the same kids you have worked with for a year. You know them.
No matter what level you teach, you need to meet the needs of the individuals, but there are many things that won't need to be taught seperately. Some things will be a positive review for the

more advanced kids and some will be introduction for those who are now ready. You can vary individual assignments to fit the needs. Years ago, 3 reading groups was the norm in many classrooms. When you work with one, the others need tasks they can complete independently; centers activities or tasks that don't need a lot of individual support, there are great sources available, I have been to some great BER workshops in recent years that offer a wealth of ideas.
On the subject of assessment, try to use as many "authentic assessments" as you can. What can you find out in the course of their daily work as opposed to specific testing?
Your students weren't all at the same level when they came to you in the first place, and the gap tends to widen as you go up through the grades.
Retention is almost non-existent here so the kids who are behind are moved on. Check you options. Some of the kids who aren't making progress may have learning disabilities, behavioral problems, ADD or other problems that become easier to identify as they get older. It may be time to seek help for them. What is available for testing and support?
Best wishes! Just keep doing what you are doing and I think you will find looping a joy.