In response to a message to Carl on ...
SK>Comes out that re-testing is a
SK>privelege earned in this teacher's class by coming in for tutoring
SK>outside of class and learning the problems that one missed on the test.
SK>Then one is allowed to retest. Since she only teaches basic courses like
SK>Pre-Algebra and Algebra I, this is probably fine. I know that many of
SK>her kids don't take advantage of this opportunity that she offers. This
SK>is her way of offering "extra credit" and is the only form of "extra
SK>credit" that she offers.
This is *exactly* what I do and it is a practice I began after 
reading and relating to an instructional style known as *mastery* 
*teaching*.  In the mastery teaching program, students do not 
progress from one unit to the next until they can demonstrate 
mastery (usually this means 80%+ accuracy).  With classes of 25 and 
more students per class, I can't afford the time to hold students 
back, but I *do* offer the chance to come in for additional help and 
to take a make-up exam.  The make-up test is never the same test 
(though it is parallel in structure and content) and the second 
grade counts (I throw out the first grade).  I offer no other 
opportunities for extra-credit.  The opportunity to re-take a test 
is completely optional and is open to everyone, even if they had a 
99% on the first test.
I like the way it works with my classes - it motivates kids to try 
to learn from their mistakes - but it is amazing how many kids don't 
take advantage of the offer, even if they are failing.
Chuck
Chuck Beams
cbeams@dreamscape.com
http://www.dreamscape.com/cbeams
___
* UniQWK #5290* Any twit can understand computers, and many do.
--- Maximus 2.01wb
---------------