Results vary widely from year to year, which, said the task force, may point to problems or inconsistencies in how the tests are scored and assessed. On Friday, the task force looked at writing assessments in other states, such as Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, and Texas. A key issue is whether it is appropriate to test narrative writing in the fourth grade. Some argue that fourth graders have not yet mastered the necessary skills to perform well on the narrative mode of testing. However, Jim Kroening , head of DPI testing research, says that years of research show such tests are appropriate for fourth graders.
Most states use the narrative mode.
They also suggested that writing portfolios be used as a back up rather than as part of the writing assessment. But the committee left open how and to what extent grammar should be tested. It made clear its intention to balance research with public opinion. Ahead of the Curve In North Carolina, if you want to vote straight ticket, you still have to cast your vote for presidential candidates separately. Though many people assumed that this was a new ballot design for this year, it was not.