Excel 1 Basic Skills Score Comparisons

For this assignment, I went to the NCES site and looked at the state comparisons section in order to see how my state of WV did in regard to 4th grade reading scores compared to the other states and District of Columbia.  Unfortunately, it would seem that in 2011 our scores were less than stellar when compared to our neighboring states and the national average.  As a teacher in WV, I have already seen these results, but it still really leaves a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach every time I see them.  At any rate, here is where we fall. West Virginia ranked #41 out of 51 in this category (2011 4th grade Reading Scores.)  We had 41 states above us and 9 states including the District of Columbia trailed us.

Once the above data was gathered, I transferred it into Excel and using the Data Analysis Tool Pack add in, was able to calculate descriptive statistics for the selected data ranges.  For the totals range(rounded to the nearest thousandth), the average scale score was 220.408 and the standard deviation was 6.752.  West Virginia's actual score was 214.386.  I then created a scatter plot graph to give a visual representation of where we fall in the mix.

As this shows, WV still has a long way to go to catch up reading achievement on a statewide level.  I appreciated this assignment, because I was able to take numerical information in a list form and create a visual representation of it, which I personally find easier to digest.  Like "they" say, "A picture is worth a thousand words."  And, for many learners, a picture really does convey the overall message much more quickly and memorably.  We still need access to the mundane data, however, in order to get into details and back it all up.

The NETS standards used in this assignment are:

3. Model Digital-Age Work and Learning

Teachers exhibit knowledge, skills, and work processes representative of an innovative professional in a global and digital society. Teachers:

a.	demonstrate fluency in technology systems and the transfer of current knowledge to new technologies and situations.
b.	collaborate with students, peers, parents, and community members using digital tools and resources to support student success and innovation.
c.	communicate relevant information and ideas effectively to students, parents, and peers using a variety of digital age media and formats.
d.	model and facilitate effective use of current and emerging digital tools to locate, analyze, evaluate, and use information resources to support research and learning.

5. Engage in Professional Growth and Leadership

    Teachers continuously improve their professional practice, model lifelong learning, and exhibit leadership in their school and professional community by promoting and demonstrating the effective use of digital tools and resources. Teachers:
    a.   participate in local and global learning communities to explore creative applications of technology to improve student learning.