Tag Page ScienceTeaching

Should We Teach to the Test or Build Foundations?

Have you ever watched a classroom full of bright-eyed students wilt under the weight of district-made exams? In my own school, these tests—crafted from released EOC questions—seem to drain the very curiosity we strive to ignite. The average score? A humbling 20-40%. It’s almost poetic, if it weren’t so tragic. Here’s the twist: the content dives deep, but our students are still learning to swim. Do I keep teaching at this depth, hoping a few catch on, or do I pull back and shore up their basic science skills, risking the wrath of the almighty STAAR test at year’s end? The district’s rigid 3-day testing window leaves no room for reteaching or second chances. What would you do in my shoes? Share your wisdom—or poke holes in mine! Maybe together, we’ll find a way out of this academic labyrinth. 🌪️🧠 #Education #ScienceTeaching #StudentSuccess