As the author demonstrates, whenever preservice or beginning teachers observe a veteran teacher in action, the veteran serves as a mentor, in the sense that the experienced teacher is modeling the practices that can influence the newcomer. In this article, the author reminds educators about the importance of formative assessments, not just of the…

Discusses the problems of evaluating creativity, and explains a particular approach used by the author. (JL)

Describes a method of evaluating writing that encourages students to become writers and that rewards their compositions. Notes how the evaluation method examines four major characteristics of good writing: surprise, truth, detail, and depth. (RL)

Points out the disadvantages and limitations of grading all student writing. Offers alternative methods of giving students meaningful feedback about their writing. (RL)

Shows how a teacher developed a pattern of responding to student writing. Lists 15 of her standard comments. (RL)

Sixteen teachers offer their alternative methods of evaluating student work in the English classroom. (RL)

The criteria developed by the NCTE Committee on Curriculum Bulletins for the evaluation of reading programs are presented and explained. (JH)

Notes the advantages of "staff grading," a procedure for student evaluation that distinguishes the teacher as a helper from the person who evaluates students and supplies a measure of growth in writing. (RL)

Having writers ask questions about their own papers promotes commitment to the revising and proofreading process. Students can ask teachers or peers the following: (1) What do you like about my paper? (2) What questions do you have about my paper? (3) What kinds of polishing does my paper need? (RL)

Reframing the Great Rubric Debate beyond the taking of sides, Eric D. Turley and Chris W. Gallagher propose a set of questions designed to help educators assess the value of rubrics: (1) What is the tool for?; (2) In what context is it used?; (3) Who decides:; and (4) What ideological agenda drives those decisions? They contend that these four…

Offers classroom teachers from kindergarten through grade 12 seven suggestions on writing publishable manuscripts: (1) study journals' editorial policies, (2) give credit for borrowed material, (3) learn of publication plans for forthcoming issues, (4) avoid sexist language, (5) keep the intended audience in mind, (6) proofread and revise, and (7)…

Lists 25 things that teachers should consider when evaluating the linguistic components of the texts they select and use for English grammar and writing instruction. (RL)

Discusses the advantages inherent in using peer evaluations in writing classes. Offers a list of references on peer teaching in writing instruction. (RL)

Offers four evaluative questions for revising writing assignments into vehicles that steadily move students toward writing fluency. (RL)

Class activities such as discussing student work in editing group sessions or on the viewing screen can be used successfully to teach revision and ensure polished student writing. (RL)