Steps in Analyzing the TAKS Reading

a.      Look at the questions on the TAKS Release Test and then look at the correct answers.

b.      Identify the steps in thinking required to get the answer. (Level I, II, or III)

c.      Identify where it is taught in the curriculum (TEKS-SE)

d.      Identify the TAKS Objective

e.      Identify what evidence in the passage supports the answer.

Activity:  Analyzing the Reading TAKS

Materials Needed:

Directions:

  1. A copy of “Educator’s Guide to TEKS-Based Assessment” for each participant.
  2. A copy of “Saved by Burning”  reading passage and test questions for each
  3. Answer Key on Overhead Transparency
Read passage

After Reading the Passage:

    1. Identify the correct answer choice.
    2. Identify the paragraph in which the Evidence is located.
    3. Identify the Level of the Question (Level I, II, or III)
    4. Identify the TAKS Objective
    5. Identify the TEKS/SE TARGET

 

Most Significant Student Errors Statewide on the Reading TAKS

 #1 ERROR:  Students use prior knowledge not connected to information in the passage to determine their answer choice.

#2 ERROR:  Students “match” information in the passage with information in an answer choice when the answer is implied or inferred.

#3 ERROR:  Students use their own personal experiences in the selection of their answer.

Excerpt from Margaret Kilgo’s Training.