California Science Assessment (CAST) - 2016-2017 Pilot

It's here! The CST science test has finally been replaced by the new California Science Assessment, also known as the CAST.  The 2016-2017 school year will be used to pilot the new test in the same way the pilot test was used to shape the SBAC 5 years ago.  Since the testing procedure may be new for science teachers who have not administered the SBAC in previous years, we have put together a video to help with the transition.  Here are the details:

• For now, the practice and training test can be used to get acquainted with the CAST and the CAASPP test administrator interface.
• The training test uses science content for grades 5, 8, and High School.  The training test is NOT grade level specific.
• If you need a password, please contact me.  To experience the Test Administrator Interface and simulate what starting a test will be like, it will be necessary to log in.  Completing this step at this time will also alleviate many of the problems you would experience during the actual test.

Watch the video below to see how it is done!

CAST Training Test from Roger Block on Vimeo.

Using Google Classroom...A Comparison

Some people are still searching for ways to incorporate Google Classroom into their instruction.  Here is a quick presentation that compares, side by side, what it is like giving an assignment the classic way, compared to using the Google Classroom.  The presentation contains videos, so be sure to watch them!

Click here for the presentation!

Kahoot!

Kahoot is a great way to check for understanding, in a fun and engaging way.  In short, a teacher puts together a short quiz or series of questions that the student answer using their Chromebooks.  For Kahoot to work, a teacher must be able to project their screen, as students will only see the answer options.  The series of videos below will show you how to create your account, create a quiz, administer a quiz, and what the students will see on their end.  Enjoy!

Create your Kahoot Here!

Create your first Kahoot!

Administer the Kahoot with your class!

Student link: kahoot.it

District Google Templates

Google has recently released a new feature in Google Docs that allows an organization, our district, to provide templates to all of our users. The video below shows you how to access those templates so that you can use them with your students. I also want to encourage you to send us your ideas for other templates that you would like included. This may be something you have already created, or an older document that you would like to see created but have had a hard time doing so. Check it out!

Working on a Template (Student's Perspective)

Using Templates in Google Classroom

1.  Open up Google Docs/Slides and open the template.  This creates a new document.  Rename so that it is specific to your assignment.

2.  Go to Google Classroom and create the assignment.  See the video below for a demonstration.

  

ABCya.com

Looking for an easy way to incorporate the Chromebooks into your classrooms.  Here is a quick and easy way to start the process.  ABCYa.com gives students and teachers easy access to grade level material for all subject areas. It is also a wonderful resource that allows students to choose a level that they are comfortable working at.  Watch the video for a quick "How To."

Using ABCYA from Roger Block on Vimeo.