The end of the school year means exam season around the world, and Tchey Primary School and Knar Primary School were no exception.
PLF volunteers wrote English exams for each grade level, using material and images from their English textbooks and administered the exams in quiet, proctored classrooms to discourage “helping” amongst the students.
The scores of the exams were then returned to teachers at each school, and volunteers worked with teachers at each school to determine what the scores meant and how the teacher could use the information to see what students do and don’t understand. Testing the English reading, grammar, and vocabulary of the students will not only send a message to the students about the importance of understanding, rather than memorizing, the material but also about encourage them to attend class as often as possible.
For the teachers, the exams provided data from which to improve their lesson plans and teaching methods. For the English program, the exams ensure that each student is learning English at a level that meets their needs, so that they are neither bored nor lost during class.
The data gathered from the exams showed that a significant number (about half) of English I students, particularly those who had not regularly attended class, were not prepared enough to go on to English II, where they would be more confused and left behind. About 2/3 of English II students are being moved ahead to English III. English classes next year are expected to better meet the needs of the students.
Article by Brooke Heinichen
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