data tracking

   We have been hard at work taking benchmarks and looking at data.  I kind of have this love hate relationship with data, though probably more love than hate.  I love getting to see exactly which part of math that they are struggling to target for interventions with and getting to celebrate what they have already mastered.  I love developing plans for how they are going to reach their goals. The only thing I hate to see is when kids get discouraged and think that they aren't smart or  so below they are working on their data tracking plan.  We track the TEKS (Texas standards) from each test.  I try to do all of our unit tests and benchmarks but I confess with 4 grade levels and 14 classes we are doing good to get the benchmarks and a handful of unit test.  When I was in the classroom it was a little easier but sometimes I have more data than time!  Based on skill that the student still needs I form my groups.  
   My current plan during grouping is to have a mini lesson and short activity with me or the homeroom teacher. I also am in the works of videoing a mini lesson for the TEKS so they can watch it for extra practice or at home.  Then each student gets a practice page for that skill and completes it independently.  If they can get an 80% or better they "graduate" that skill.  in my tub (you know how much I love my tubs) I have one of our resource printed on green, yellow and pink.  The green sheets are their first attempt, yellow second and pink third.  This helps me and know who still is struggling and who is trucking along. I can also let students play a game based on a particular TEK from my tub . My students love not having to work on skills they have mastered and take so much more ownership of their learning this way.  I also reward them when they graduate all of their skills!