Math Development
Myra picks up new mathematical concepts quickly and is able to
apply the new knowledge immediately to solve problems. She
has been working on activities involving sorting, graphing, esti-
mating (both quantity and volume), and place value. She has
also been doing a lot of group problem solving. She is able to
generate multiple solutions to a problem and can usually explain
in words how she arrived at her solution. She is developing effi-
cient strategies for doing mental computations. She enjoys a
mathematical challenge and is willing to struggle with a prob-
lem when the answer is not immediately apparent.Reporting to the Board and the Community
Schools must also report progress with the Habits of Mind to the board of
education and the community. Although most communities consider the
Habits of Mind to be important, they don’t often take the time to reflect
on the habits’ meaning and to notice improvement. If board members
are already working on their own behavior—acting as role models for
students and using the Habits of Mind to guide their work and commu-
nication—then they have a deeper appreciation for the assessments that
are brought before them.
Many schools provide a profile of student progress with the Habits of
Mind that are based on checklists and self-evaluation profiles. For exam-
ple, the rubrics shown in Figures 11.5 through 11.9 in Chapter 11 can be
used to track students over time. A graph will show progress and areas
where students still need work.
Students can also make presentations reflecting their understanding
of the habits. Through the preparation and presentation, they become
living models of using the habits. Community events are an important
opportunity for students to showcase how they use the Habits of Mind.
They can participate in planning, implementing, and evaluating events.
For example, back-to-school night is a prime event at which students
can show their understanding of the Habits of Mind through examples of
their classroom work that demonstrate the habits. Students who are keep-
ing electronic portfolios often have examples of their use of the habits as
Reporting Growth in Habits of Mind 265