Action Research Plan

Evaluation of the Relationship Between Benchmark

Scores and Standardized Test Scores

Troy Spivey

Lamar University

Action Research EDLD 5301

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

• Collect data showing the results from the scheduled benchmarks throughout the year during the 09-10 and the 10-11 school years for 11^th grade math
• Collect data showing the results from the standardized test for the 09-10 and the 10-11 school years for 11^th grade math
• Individualize the reports to show performance based on race, gender, and economic status
• Evaluate and present the relationship between the benchmarks and the results from the standardized test

ACTIVITIES TO ACHIEVE OBJECTIVES

• Conduct a DMAC study in which data will be evaluated and charted
• Conduct a survey of test takers to evaluate importance of benchmark test
• Conduct an interview with the 11^th grade math teacher
• Conduct and interview with the Curriculum Director in which results will be discussed
• Create a chart to itemize scores based on individualized performance

RESOURCES

• DMAC

1.    Standardized test results from 09-10 and 10-11

2.    Benchmark results from 09-10 and 10-11

• Excel spreadsheet

1.    Categorize results based on gender, race, and economic status

2.    Compare success or failure of benchmarks and standardized test

• TEKS for 11^th grade math

1.     Evaluate properly aligned TEKS on benchmarks

• Test Taker Survey

1.    Evaluate the seriousness of the test takers about the actual benchmark tests

TIMELINE

• PRIORITY

1.    Collect data using DMAC program containing benchmark and standardized test scores

2.    Break down data into race, gender, and economic status results

3.    Form a chart in which related data is compared

4.    Survey actual test takers

5.    Interview 11^th grade math teacher

6.    Interview Curriculum Director

PERSONS RESPONSIBLE

• Research collector
• 11^th Grade math instructor
• Curriculum Director
• High School Principal

MONITORING SUCCESS/ EVALUATION

• From the results of the study the 11^th Grade Math teacher will better understand the significance of conducting benchmarks
• If the study reveals the results of benchmarks and standardized test scores are directly related more emphasis can be placed on struggling students.
• If the study reveals the results of benchmarks and standardized test scores are indirectly related then the information tested in the benchmarks should be re-evaluated.