March 14

I told blocks 2 and 3 that they had 90 minutes to complete this test. The test was pretty simple and straightforward so there should be no rush to complete this on time. I did not mention the fact that this was to be a timed test the day before, which may have helped with the unhappiness, but regardless, they knew when the test was going to be, so they should have studied accordingly. If they had done this, then they would have had plenty of time to complete the test; they should not assume or bank on the fact that they will be able to take the test home to finish it. Another problem that I have with this situation (the taking tests home to finish them situation) is that I worry that although the students have pledged that they have neither given nor received help on the test, they may have had some help on the test anyways. I mean, it’s not that I don’t trust the students, but I don’t. At least not yet anyways. It is something that I need to work on.

I think the best way to handle this kind of situation in the future is to set a high expectation that all students can finish the test in ninety minutes. If the expectation is already there, then they may still try and get you to let them take it home to finish it, but they are more likely to realize that finishing the test in ninety minutes is totally doable.

Another thought: should the test be redone so that it is easier to take? This would make sure that students are totally capable of finishing the test in one class block.