Guest guest Posted December 1, 2008 Report Share Posted December 1, 2008 Last year my son was in 3rd grade and his teacher sent home many practice test questions. She also directed me to additional tests available online at the following url: http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/resources/release/taks_items/index.html Maggie To: Texas-Autism-Advocacy Sent: Monday, December 1, 2008 10:01:46 AMSubject: TEKS M test Hello everyone,I need practice tests for the TEKS M test administered last year in Texas. Our lovely TEA has mandated this new test but has given us no practice questions or practice tests on which to study to be able to pass the silly thing come spring. Is there anyone out there who has found these? If so could you please send them to me or direct me to the site where I might find them? I would be most appreciative.Trina Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 2, 2008 Report Share Posted December 2, 2008 Are you sure you are talking about the TEKS M test and not just the TEKS test? When I looked at your link I found TEKS M under special education but there are only a few sample questions. Since this version of TEKS is new I am having great difficulty finding practice materials. I can modify the original TEKS test but since my son is a 7th grader the content of the test is more complicated and my ability to guess on how it might be modified by the powers that be is less than efficient. So like our lovely TEA. I would appreciate any information or sample questions for TEKS M test materials for grades 5-8 even if it's something you or your teacher has come up with on your own. Is it just me or does it seem ludicrous to ask children with Autism to pass a test they have not studied for and to hinge their entire futures on their ability to test independently as if they did not have a disability of speech impairment, sensory impairment, auditory impairment etc? This TEKS issue is becoming like the IQ test. It is not designed for non verbal people or persons affected with autism. I refuse to dumb down the test so my son can answer independently I expect the test to provide us with whatever modifications are necessary for him to answer from his own mind in the way in which his mind works. People, if your children do not pass these tests (since now all of us are tested) we will continue to bring down the ratings at our schools. Parents will be outraged that our kids are " messing up " the ratings. But these tests are not designed for us they do not accommodate us and they do not even have the common courtesy to provide us with teaching materials that other students have. Sorry to vent but I have no idea how or who to complain to and I would appreciate any advice from senior parents on how to circumvent this test issue and make sure my son has access to a academic curriculum in High School. Thanks so much for your help. Trina Maggie Everts wrote: > Last year my son was in 3rd grade and his teacher sent home many > practice test questions. She also directed me to additional tests > available online at the following url: > > http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/resources/release/taks_items/index\ ..html > <http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/resources/release/taks_items/inde\ x.html> > > Maggie > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > *From:* and Trina Sherman > *To:* Texas-Autism-Advocacy > *Sent:* Monday, December 1, 2008 10:01:46 AM > *Subject:* TEKS M test > > Hello everyone, > I need practice tests for the TEKS M test administered last year in > Texas. Our lovely TEA has mandated this new test but has given us no > practice questions or practice tests on which to study to be able to > pass the silly thing come spring. Is there anyone out there who has > found these? If so could you please send them to me or direct me to the > site where I might find them? I would be most appreciative. > Trina > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 2, 2008 Report Share Posted December 2, 2008 It is my understanding that there are three kinds of TEKS tests - standard - TEKS M - TEKS A (not sure) I believe the TEKS M is the same grade level type of questions but LESS questions than the standard test. The school can also designate accomodations, such as verbal instruction (meaning that someone reads the questions to the student one at a time for reinforcement). My son also takes tests in a separate room which is like a big closet with nothing but a desk and 2 chairs to reduce all outside stimuli, noise and distractions. I believe TEKS A has been adapted with simpler questions (but you should check with your school). I would definitely raise your concerns with your teach and ask for an ARD meeting to discuss the most appropriate testing environment and content for your son. Maggie EvertsCommunication Strategiesmaggietmck@... To: Texas-Autism-Advocacy Sent: Tuesday, December 2, 2008 2:23:53 AMSubject: Re: TEKS M test Are you sure you are talking about the TEKS M test and not just the TEKS test? When I looked at your link I found TEKS M under special education but there are only a few sample questions. Since this version of TEKS is new I am having great difficulty finding practice materials. I can modify the original TEKS test but since my son is a 7th grader the content of the test is more complicated and my ability to guess on how it might be modified by the powers that be is less than efficient. So like our lovely TEA.I would appreciate any information or sample questions for TEKS M test materials for grades 5-8 even if it's something you or your teacher has come up with on your own.Is it just me or does it seem ludicrous to ask children with Autism to pass a test they have not studied for and to hinge their entire futures on their ability to test independently as if they did not have a disability of speech impairment, sensory impairment, auditory impairment etc? This TEKS issue is becoming like the IQ test. It is not designed for non verbal people or persons affected with autism. I refuse to dumb down the test so my son can answer independently I expect the test to provide us with whatever modifications are necessary for him to answer from his own mind in the way in which his mind works.People, if your children do not pass these tests (since now all of us are tested) we will continue to bring down the ratings at our schools. Parents will be outraged that our kids are "messing up" the ratings. But these tests are not designed for us they do not accommodate us and they do not even have the common courtesy to provide us with teaching materials that other students have. Sorry to vent but I have no idea how or who to complain to and I would appreciate any advice from senior parents on how to circumvent this test issue and make sure my son has access to a academic curriculum in High School. Thanks so much for your help.TrinaMaggie Everts wrote:> Last year my son was in 3rd grade and his teacher sent home many > practice test questions. She also directed me to additional tests > available online at the following url:> > http://www.tea. state.tx. us/student. assessment/ resources/ release/taks_ items/index. html > <http://www.tea. state.tx. us/student. assessment/ resources/ release/taks_ items/index. html>> > Maggie>>> ------------ --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- -> *From:* and Trina Sherman <csherman7austin (DOT) rr.com>> *To:* Texas-Autism- Advocacy@ yahoogroups. com> *Sent:* Monday, December 1, 2008 10:01:46 AM> *Subject:* [Texas-Autism- Advocacy] TEKS M test>> Hello everyone,> I need practice tests for the TEKS M test administered last year in> Texas. Our lovely TEA has mandated this new test but has given us no> practice questions or practice tests on which to study to be able to> pass the silly thing come spring. Is there anyone out there who has> found these? If so could you please send them to me or direct me to the> site where I might find them? I would be most appreciative.> Trina>>> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 3, 2008 Report Share Posted December 3, 2008 Well, THAT’s interesting. . .I was told that the TAKS-ALT (not the modified, but the alternate) is exactly the same test as the TAKS but without the 30 extra “experimental” questions that are on the TAKS. These “experimental” questions are ones that are being tried out and are not counted towards the children’s actual grade. In fact, my son was included in the general ed classroom because the structured learning classroom teacher did not feel comfortable preparing him for the TAKS-A. The TAKS M, I thought, is the one that is for children who are not doing grade level work. S. And I was just told by my son's teacher that the TAKS-ALT they gave last year was still not acceptable to the federal government and they were changing the test for this year. I asked her if that made the test invalid, and she said no. Somewhere on the clutter that is supposed to be my desk, I have a web site they gave me to look at what the TAKS-ALT looks like. If anyone would like it, let me know and I'll see if I can do some clutter scanning for it. Hilda In a message dated 12/2/2008 10:29:40 P.M. Central Standard Time, mvbond29@... writes: Trina, This is the second year the TEKS-M test has been given. Before last spring, it was known as the SDAA (State Developed Alternative Assessment). It was given by either developmental level or by ARD recommendation. The Th Dept. of Ed didn´t like the SDAA, however, and told TEA they needed to give all students the same test. So, Dept was SUPPOSED to give all students grade level TAKS this year with accommodations or modifications. Instead, they just developed two more alternative tests, the TAKS-M (TAKS - Modified) and the TAKS-ALT (TAKS-Alternative) So, unfortunately, there are no " released TAKS-M " tests to practice on because they are really still in the process of developing them. The only thing available is located at this link: _http://www.tea.http://wwhttp://www.http://www.http://wwwhttp://www.teahttp_ (http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/resources/taksm/archive.html) Hope this helps. nna " Here in America we are descended in blood and in spirit from revolutionists and rebels - men and women who dare to dissent from accepted doctrine. As their heirs, may we never confuse honest dissent with disloyal subversion. " Dwight D. Eisenhower No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG. Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.12/1823 - Release Date: 12/1/2008 7:59 PM Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 3, 2008 Report Share Posted December 3, 2008 Ooops, just checked it and my son is taking the TAKS accommodated, not the TAKS Alt. Here’s a link to the chart for assessments. . . Oh, and the TEKS is the list of what is supposed to be taught (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) while the TAKS is the assessment of that knowledge. What is interesting to me is that I have heard, but have not confirmed, that the TAKS actually tests children on reading material that is a grade level AHEAD of where they are at, not at grade level—that’s why it’s not considered a good test at the national level. S. " Here in America we are descended in blood and in spirit from revolutionists and rebels - men and women who dare to dissent from accepted doctrine. As their heirs, may we never confuse honest dissent with disloyal subversion. " Dwight D. Eisenhower No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG. Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.12/1823 - Release Date: 12/1/2008 7:59 PM Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 4, 2008 Report Share Posted December 4, 2008 There are a few samples online at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/resources/taksm/index.html#training Tonya From: Texas-Autism-Advocacy [mailto:Texas-Autism-Advocacy ] On Behalf Of and Trina Sherman Sent: Monday, December 01, 2008 10:02 AM To: Texas-Autism-Advocacy Subject: TEKS M test Hello everyone, I need practice tests for the TEKS M test administered last year in Texas. Our lovely TEA has mandated this new test but has given us no practice questions or practice tests on which to study to be able to pass the silly thing come spring. Is there anyone out there who has found these? If so could you please send them to me or direct me to the site where I might find them? I would be most appreciative. Trina Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 4, 2008 Report Share Posted December 4, 2008 Thanks Tonya I have those. I am going to ask the school if the TEKS Alt is a better choice and if passing that test is enough to get us full inclusion with an aide in high school. At this point we are doing resource for math and language arts largely because the class is smaller and we have the ability to pull out to a quiet room if the class becomes too much in either full inclusion or resource. My problem with self contained is the aggression and verbal stims of other students.My student is pulled out for the slightest distraction but is supposed to learn regardless of who is throwing a tantrum or screaming or in several cases attacking him. I'd like to continue to give my child a academic rich curriculum but he has to prove that he can learn. Therefore he has to past their test to show it. Can anyone tell me the difference between TEKM and TEKS ALT? Are they both grade level? Do they both count? Additionally if I and my tutors come up with practice tests for either of these tests for 6th-8th grade would anyone be interesting in purchasing a copy? It might be a good way for my cash poor college students to make some money and sharpen their skills. And it would benefit more children than just mine. Just a thought. Thanks everyone please keep this communication coming. Trina Tonya Hettler wrote: > > There are a few samples online at > http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/resources/taksm/index.html#trainin\ g > <http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/resources/taksm/index.html#traini\ ng> > > > > Tonya > > > > *From:* Texas-Autism-Advocacy > [mailto:Texas-Autism-Advocacy ] *On Behalf Of *Chris > and Trina Sherman > *Sent:* Monday, December 01, 2008 10:02 AM > *To:* Texas-Autism-Advocacy > *Subject:* TEKS M test > > > > Hello everyone, > I need practice tests for the TEKS M test administered last year in > Texas. Our lovely TEA has mandated this new test but has given us no > practice questions or practice tests on which to study to be able to > pass the silly thing come spring. Is there anyone out there who has > found these? If so could you please send them to me or direct me to the > site where I might find them? I would be most appreciative. > Trina > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 4, 2008 Report Share Posted December 4, 2008 Also, check with your ESC person that is in charge of this. In the past, ESC-17 has gotten tons of practice manuals and gives them away free. Tonya From: Texas-Autism-Advocacy [mailto:Texas-Autism-Advocacy ] On Behalf Of Maggie Everts Sent: Tuesday, December 02, 2008 8:02 AM To: Texas-Autism-Advocacy Subject: Re: TEKS M test It is my understanding that there are three kinds of TEKS tests - standard - TEKS M - TEKS A (not sure) I believe the TEKS M is the same grade level type of questions but LESS questions than the standard test. The school can also designate accomodations, such as verbal instruction (meaning that someone reads the questions to the student one at a time for reinforcement). My son also takes tests in a separate room which is like a big closet with nothing but a desk and 2 chairs to reduce all outside stimuli, noise and distractions. I believe TEKS A has been adapted with simpler questions (but you should check with your school). I would definitely raise your concerns with your teach and ask for an ARD meeting to discuss the most appropriate testing environment and content for your son. Maggie Everts Communication Strategies maggietmck@... From: and Trina Sherman To: Texas-Autism-Advocacy Sent: Tuesday, December 2, 2008 2:23:53 AM Subject: Re: TEKS M test Are you sure you are talking about the TEKS M test and not just the TEKS test? When I looked at your link I found TEKS M under special education but there are only a few sample questions. Since this version of TEKS is new I am having great difficulty finding practice materials. I can modify the original TEKS test but since my son is a 7th grader the content of the test is more complicated and my ability to guess on how it might be modified by the powers that be is less than efficient. So like our lovely TEA. I would appreciate any information or sample questions for TEKS M test materials for grades 5-8 even if it's something you or your teacher has come up with on your own. Is it just me or does it seem ludicrous to ask children with Autism to pass a test they have not studied for and to hinge their entire futures on their ability to test independently as if they did not have a disability of speech impairment, sensory impairment, auditory impairment etc? This TEKS issue is becoming like the IQ test. It is not designed for non verbal people or persons affected with autism. I refuse to dumb down the test so my son can answer independently I expect the test to provide us with whatever modifications are necessary for him to answer from his own mind in the way in which his mind works. People, if your children do not pass these tests (since now all of us are tested) we will continue to bring down the ratings at our schools. Parents will be outraged that our kids are " messing up " the ratings. But these tests are not designed for us they do not accommodate us and they do not even have the common courtesy to provide us with teaching materials that other students have. Sorry to vent but I have no idea how or who to complain to and I would appreciate any advice from senior parents on how to circumvent this test issue and make sure my son has access to a academic curriculum in High School. Thanks so much for your help. Trina Maggie Everts wrote: > Last year my son was in 3rd grade and his teacher sent home many > practice test questions. She also directed me to additional tests > available online at the following url: > > http://www.tea. state.tx. us/student. assessment/ resources/ release/taks_ items/index. html > <http://www.tea. state.tx. us/student. assessment/ resources/ release/taks_ items/index. html> > > Maggie > > > ------------ --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- - > *From:* and Trina Sherman <csherman7austin (DOT) rr.com> > *To:* Texas-Autism- Advocacy@ yahoogroups. com > *Sent:* Monday, December 1, 2008 10:01:46 AM > *Subject:* [Texas-Autism- Advocacy] TEKS M test > > Hello everyone, > I need practice tests for the TEKS M test administered last year in > Texas. Our lovely TEA has mandated this new test but has given us no > practice questions or practice tests on which to study to be able to > pass the silly thing come spring. Is there anyone out there who has > found these? If so could you please send them to me or direct me to the > site where I might find them? I would be most appreciative. > Trina > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 4, 2008 Report Share Posted December 4, 2008 You’re welcome Trina. From what I understand, kids that take TAKS-M & TAKS-Alt only get the minimum diploma in TX. http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/special_education/testing_req/testing_guidelines_flowchart_a.pdf If they want the recommended or commended diploma they have to take TAKS or TAKS-Accom. Our school balks at letting kids take TAKS-Alt. I was told “if they can hold a pencil, they have to take TAKS-M” despite what their disability is. I’m thinking that is because NCLB only allows for so many exemptions before it counts against the schools rating and TAKS-Alt is considered an exemption. I’m at the state conference and don’t have access to my notes, so please double check that. As to your students writing & marketing practice tests, it may be a waste of time. TEA only came out with TAKS-M last year and I’m betting there will be practice info released this year. I’d check with TEA before taking on an endeavor like that. I’d hate for your students to put a lot of work in and then TEA release something that made it a waste of time. Tonya From: Texas-Autism-Advocacy [mailto:Texas-Autism-Advocacy ] On Behalf Of and Trina Sherman Sent: Thursday, December 04, 2008 6:50 AM To: Texas-Autism-Advocacy Subject: Re: TEKS M test Thanks Tonya I have those. I am going to ask the school if the TEKS Alt is a better choice and if passing that test is enough to get us full inclusion with an aide in high school. At this point we are doing resource for math and language arts largely because the class is smaller and we have the ability to pull out to a quiet room if the class becomes too much in either full inclusion or resource. My problem with self contained is the aggression and verbal stims of other students.My student is pulled out for the slightest distraction but is supposed to learn regardless of who is throwing a tantrum or screaming or in several cases attacking him. I'd like to continue to give my child a academic rich curriculum but he has to prove that he can learn. Therefore he has to past their test to show it. Can anyone tell me the difference between TEKM and TEKS ALT? Are they both grade level? Do they both count? Additionally if I and my tutors come up with practice tests for either of these tests for 6th-8th grade would anyone be interesting in purchasing a copy? It might be a good way for my cash poor college students to make some money and sharpen their skills. And it would benefit more children than just mine. Just a thought. Thanks everyone please keep this communication coming. Trina Tonya Hettler wrote: > > There are a few samples online at > http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/resources/taksm/index.html#training > <http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/resources/taksm/index.html#training> > > > > Tonya > > > > *From:* Texas-Autism-Advocacy > [mailto:Texas-Autism-Advocacy ] *On Behalf Of * > and Trina Sherman > *Sent:* Monday, December 01, 2008 10:02 AM > *To:* Texas-Autism-Advocacy > *Subject:* TEKS M test > > > > Hello everyone, > I need practice tests for the TEKS M test administered last year in > Texas. Our lovely TEA has mandated this new test but has given us no > practice questions or practice tests on which to study to be able to > pass the silly thing come spring. Is there anyone out there who has > found these? If so could you please send them to me or direct me to the > site where I might find them? I would be most appreciative. > Trina > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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