Chalk Talk- Conley's Ch. 3

Principles

13. Teacher teams, which are interdisciplinary teams that meet regularly to discuss students and align instruction with standard and state assessments

-My thoughts-

* In my intermediate block, I was able to experience teacher teams first hand in my clinical experience. My mentor teacher met with other teachers in her grade to discuss students, and align instruction with other teachers and standards and state assessments. I was enthused to see the team work and communication between the teachers. My mentor was in charge of all Literature assignments, so she would discuss what she has planned to do for the week. If any of the other teachers had comments or questions they would ask for clarification.

* During the meetings, the teachers also discussed some negative issues that dealt with state testing and other issues. Unfortunately, Mississippi is one of the lowest scoring states in state testing. The teachers were discussing what Florida does differently and why can't they travel and see first hand how they prepare for state testing.

* I feel that in order for teachers to become an interdisciplinary team they must work together, balance responsibilities, values, knowledge and skills. It is important for teachers to align instruction with state standards, but teachers must also teach material that connects to the standards to provide students' with an understanding of other material. State assessments are also extremely important for students', they must understand the content that they are being tested on.