Most folks shake a little in their boots at the sound of the word testing as the mind runs wild trying to figure out what .....testing. Today's local newspaper carries a headline touting a call by school administrators for less testing. As one who has had a career in public education my mind is turned toward the query of who is the testing for, who instituted the testing, who made the initial call, what do we do with results. What crosses my mind quickly is politicians with their allegations that schools, i.e. teachers, were not doing a satisfactory job in educating the students in public schools. Therefore, we must test to prove our point!!
On the other hand, looking at a broader picture of the entire scene we see the following. In the arena which is the school and classroom we must actually teach for mastery. So we teach, teach, teach and then we evaluate in some form to 'see' if the concepts taught were mastered! In their efforts to be more effective some where along the way it was decided that perhaps an evaluation should be done at intervals (called benchmarks) to check for gaps and progress making intervention easier rather than waiting until the end and just measuring deficits and shaking fingers at those "darned teachers!" And I might add placing blame. Personally I have always felt that a gap in this procedure is what is done with the results when benchmark testing shows deficits in understanding and mastery.
What has evolved with all of these intentions and evaluations has been an elephant in the house who has devoured the one thing of which teachers are always short.....instructional time. How do you resolve this issue?? A curriculum is designed with each teacher being charged with teaching and developing mastery of concepts in given area(s). There do not seem to be enough instructional hours within the allotted time in a school year to teach, test multiple times, remediate, and still move forward with the charge of teaching and developing the curriculum in a course of study
I have some ideas but I doubt they would be very popular since many of them involve the appropriation of additional dollars to public education. Do you have any of your own?? Most folks can think of many complaints but few have suggestions for solutions.
Friday, January 30, 2015
Friday, January 16, 2015
Washing Machines and Jewelry
And so it goes....I did my research!!! I mean I truly did my research. My washing machine died back in the fall; it was only about sixteen years old, maybe! So I started checking out new machines knowing detergent had changed but without a full knowledge of what that meant in terms of washing machine re-design. How convoluted can an issue be!! I learned that rather than all machines being driven by an agitator in the center the newer designs were what is known as impellers. From what understanding I could gain this design is one in which water and a cleaning agent is forced through the dirty clothing to clean them. I had my doubts. All of the studies I could find verified my doubts. Some of those purchasing and using these machines indicated they were satisfied and a significant number indicated they were less than pleased and felt their clothes were not as clean with the impeller system as with an agitator.
I continued my quest of finding a new machine. I went from store to store. I talked with salesman after salesman. Pretty soon it was obvious they did not like my shopping techniques or my questions. They seemed to wonder why I just didn't play stupid, buy a machine, and leave. I asked too many questions, I asked about complaints, feedback, their understanding of how the machines operated and cleaned the clothing. I wore myself out. I was getting nowhere. I was bent on finding the best agitator machine possible. What I found was a large collection of available impeller machines by various companies and very few makers of agitators available locally for purchase.
I continue to be angry with myself for my choice. I hate to admit that I finally gave up. Rather than buy an agitator (type) which appeared to be more cheaply made machines lacking features I let myself be talked into buying an impeller type machine. And as I had gleaned from the reviews and studies, my own experience has been no different. An impeller machine does not clean clothes as well as does an agitator. With that being said, there are legitimate complaints about agitators such as clothing being caught around the agitator post. Most of the mentioned complaints were of lesser importance than the cleanliness of clothing to me. I have found myself putting items through several wash cycles before I could even accept their level of cleanliness. Stay tuned. I may pitch this washing machine out any day in a fit of Irish anger known only to Daugherty descendants. Then I will again be looking for agitator machines hoping they are still making them!
By the way, I also bought a new dryer and its performance is quite acceptable.
Now to my deal with jewelry In recent years, fashion has been on a bend of low necklines. Seemingly to go along with that, costume jewelry has been caught up in a revival of necklaces to fill that void of exposed neckline and cleavage. It is strand after strand of logging chains with some colored crystals or beads hung on them. While they started out looking quite attractive, as they have evolved they just get tackier and tackier. Need I add that I don't think many of them do a lot for accessorizing an outfit. Don't get me wrong. I love jewelry --but with a bit more class. Just my opinion......no one needs to agree.
I continued my quest of finding a new machine. I went from store to store. I talked with salesman after salesman. Pretty soon it was obvious they did not like my shopping techniques or my questions. They seemed to wonder why I just didn't play stupid, buy a machine, and leave. I asked too many questions, I asked about complaints, feedback, their understanding of how the machines operated and cleaned the clothing. I wore myself out. I was getting nowhere. I was bent on finding the best agitator machine possible. What I found was a large collection of available impeller machines by various companies and very few makers of agitators available locally for purchase.
I continue to be angry with myself for my choice. I hate to admit that I finally gave up. Rather than buy an agitator (type) which appeared to be more cheaply made machines lacking features I let myself be talked into buying an impeller type machine. And as I had gleaned from the reviews and studies, my own experience has been no different. An impeller machine does not clean clothes as well as does an agitator. With that being said, there are legitimate complaints about agitators such as clothing being caught around the agitator post. Most of the mentioned complaints were of lesser importance than the cleanliness of clothing to me. I have found myself putting items through several wash cycles before I could even accept their level of cleanliness. Stay tuned. I may pitch this washing machine out any day in a fit of Irish anger known only to Daugherty descendants. Then I will again be looking for agitator machines hoping they are still making them!
By the way, I also bought a new dryer and its performance is quite acceptable.
Now to my deal with jewelry In recent years, fashion has been on a bend of low necklines. Seemingly to go along with that, costume jewelry has been caught up in a revival of necklaces to fill that void of exposed neckline and cleavage. It is strand after strand of logging chains with some colored crystals or beads hung on them. While they started out looking quite attractive, as they have evolved they just get tackier and tackier. Need I add that I don't think many of them do a lot for accessorizing an outfit. Don't get me wrong. I love jewelry --but with a bit more class. Just my opinion......no one needs to agree.
Monday, January 5, 2015
Cotton-Pickin' Politics
I admit it....I read the newspaper regularly. I follow politics and political issues. Sometimes political issues irritate me "right out of my frame," so to speak! However, I have learned over the considerable years of my life that I have very little power to influence the outcome of political decisions. Certainly, I can vote and I do. I could lobby, write letters, arrange appointments with political representatives but....I have come to realize that many of those whom we elect pay little attention to our requests, reasoning, and opinions once elected and in office. This is not the way the system is supposed to work --- we all know this but.....unfortunately 'it is what it is,' as I use an overused cliche'.
As for political views, I am not certain I could be identified with any political party, thus I am an Independent. However, in this state I am identified as Unaffiliated. Go figure. Independent versus Unaffiliated!!
What I have learned is this, it does not pay to get your panties in a wad or your britches in a stitch over these issues alone. If you find you are able to align yourself with a group of individuals who represent your thinking, have influence, and the ability to approach reform in a lawful and acceptable manner you might have impact. Otherwise, try not to waste your energy and blow your blood pressure out of the water thinking you, alone, can control a bunch of politicians once they have that all important thing called "power!" Once that happens, they go deaf!!
As for political views, I am not certain I could be identified with any political party, thus I am an Independent. However, in this state I am identified as Unaffiliated. Go figure. Independent versus Unaffiliated!!
What I have learned is this, it does not pay to get your panties in a wad or your britches in a stitch over these issues alone. If you find you are able to align yourself with a group of individuals who represent your thinking, have influence, and the ability to approach reform in a lawful and acceptable manner you might have impact. Otherwise, try not to waste your energy and blow your blood pressure out of the water thinking you, alone, can control a bunch of politicians once they have that all important thing called "power!" Once that happens, they go deaf!!
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Pet Ownership and Responsibility
I am convinced that when we long for a pet to enrich our lives we never ever give thought to losing that object of our love and devotion to disease or the cost and care that may be incurred in trying to take care of the pet. That particular thought occurs to me very often these days after having several doggies who have suffered pain and disease and in one case was lost to cancer.
It tears at the heart when you take your pet to the vet hoping for treatment and relief only to find that there exists a disease that can be treated (perhaps) but not cured and in some cases becomes the cause of loss of the pet to death. We do the best we can hoping we are doing all that is right/correct sometimes finding we were not 100% on target.
At our house these days we have one healthy mini schnauzer (age 4) and one (age 10) who has been diagnosed and is being treated daily for diabetes which in pets is Type I. Wow, what a ride this has been! She is contrary to feed for whatever reason. She once was easy to feed. Nowadays, not so much. I am never sure whether she just isn't hungry or doesn't want what I can offer. Diet is limited in that sugar or carbs which convert to sugar are limited to exclusion. There are days when I almost lose my mind trying to get her to eat so that I can administer the required insulin. Dogs receive an insulin injection about 15-30 minutes AFTER eating. Then there is the question of walking your dog. As you know, exercise affects use of sugar in the burning of energy by the body. So...much must be considered here in caring for her basic health. Checking their glucose levels can also be a trial. After all, who likes to be punched with needles and sharp things all of the time. I never thought about a dog having diabetes previously but now I certainly do. With my first schnauzer, I learned lessons about dogs with bladder stones and removal plus having them lodge in the tract and needing removal. I learned that bladder stones are of two varieties and what causes each --- and consequently prevention. So much to learn, so much responsibility.
Each day we move forward in our house, try to do our best to care for and love both mini schnauzer girls and meet the challenges which occur. Will I consider pet ownership after this? I don't know the answer to that. With pure bred dogs prone to a variety of diseases it can be expensive. Time will tell.
It tears at the heart when you take your pet to the vet hoping for treatment and relief only to find that there exists a disease that can be treated (perhaps) but not cured and in some cases becomes the cause of loss of the pet to death. We do the best we can hoping we are doing all that is right/correct sometimes finding we were not 100% on target.
At our house these days we have one healthy mini schnauzer (age 4) and one (age 10) who has been diagnosed and is being treated daily for diabetes which in pets is Type I. Wow, what a ride this has been! She is contrary to feed for whatever reason. She once was easy to feed. Nowadays, not so much. I am never sure whether she just isn't hungry or doesn't want what I can offer. Diet is limited in that sugar or carbs which convert to sugar are limited to exclusion. There are days when I almost lose my mind trying to get her to eat so that I can administer the required insulin. Dogs receive an insulin injection about 15-30 minutes AFTER eating. Then there is the question of walking your dog. As you know, exercise affects use of sugar in the burning of energy by the body. So...much must be considered here in caring for her basic health. Checking their glucose levels can also be a trial. After all, who likes to be punched with needles and sharp things all of the time. I never thought about a dog having diabetes previously but now I certainly do. With my first schnauzer, I learned lessons about dogs with bladder stones and removal plus having them lodge in the tract and needing removal. I learned that bladder stones are of two varieties and what causes each --- and consequently prevention. So much to learn, so much responsibility.
Each day we move forward in our house, try to do our best to care for and love both mini schnauzer girls and meet the challenges which occur. Will I consider pet ownership after this? I don't know the answer to that. With pure bred dogs prone to a variety of diseases it can be expensive. Time will tell.
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Pondering...
So here we find ourselves or myself, I should say, at the end of another year asking myself, " have I used these 365 days to benefit mankind and those for whom I care most." The correct answer is probably no with a million exclamation points. But I must remember the words of leaders who admonish us to move forward and not look back to wallow in our failures as there is nothing to be gained. This is always true but human nature being subject to natural tendencies we are always tempted to wish, regret, and perhaps even learn from our previous experiences. As a new year dawns in a few hours one can hope and pledge to do better than previous years and move forward with that intent. So welcome 2015 ...help us/me to be better, improved, and to make use of every minute to its fullest degree.
Saturday, December 6, 2014
Doing Your Part ...or Going to the H - - - Place!!
Today and for the last few I am short tempered, impatient, and tired of the same ole same ole!! I should probably go back to bed and start another new day later. For more than a week I have felt like a walking zombie with my head in an electric mixer thanks to a sinus infection. As a result I am really truly short on patience and just plain fussy!
Today, I do not like suck-ups and people who, while perhaps thinking they are doing their job (calling), approach you with this "do-gooder" attitude and the line starts out with, "Could you please come and let me talk to you just about three minutes to offer you the opportunity to do a little service for some who need it?" It would certainly be appreciated if you could do your part. The entire time your brain is working in 25th gear asking itself, "what the heck is this about, now?" "What is it so needful of my services." You are a widow maintaining a home and caring for two canines one of whom is sick with diabetes, holding down four of these church jobs otherwise known as service opportunities already! Everything that happens in your home and to your vehicles is your responsibility. There is no second person in your household to help. Questions wash over you like, Am I doing your part? Can I actually do one more thing? Do I really want another "service opportunity?" Do you really want to do this thing you are being asked to do? No, you truly do not. Thus, you try to say No politely in every conceivable way possible but "ain't nobody listening!" To get your point across someone needs to be listening with their ears open, not closed. What this person actually hears is you gladly and graciously thanking him for this opportunity!! What you are actually saying is, "Is there no one else without other responsibilities who can do this job each week?" The question is passed over quickly, " no they want you." So you sit there wondering what is so magical about you that there is none other!! While some would be 'bustin' their buttons' and feeling excited about this you give up trying to persuade this 'do-gooder" that your plate is really full -- and no thanks.
So you find yourself trapped in a situation, resentful, and feeling like a victim of persuasive techniques over which you have no control. Slowly seething....wondering how this will all play out when you come to your senses.
Today, I do not like suck-ups and people who, while perhaps thinking they are doing their job (calling), approach you with this "do-gooder" attitude and the line starts out with, "Could you please come and let me talk to you just about three minutes to offer you the opportunity to do a little service for some who need it?" It would certainly be appreciated if you could do your part. The entire time your brain is working in 25th gear asking itself, "what the heck is this about, now?" "What is it so needful of my services." You are a widow maintaining a home and caring for two canines one of whom is sick with diabetes, holding down four of these church jobs otherwise known as service opportunities already! Everything that happens in your home and to your vehicles is your responsibility. There is no second person in your household to help. Questions wash over you like, Am I doing your part? Can I actually do one more thing? Do I really want another "service opportunity?" Do you really want to do this thing you are being asked to do? No, you truly do not. Thus, you try to say No politely in every conceivable way possible but "ain't nobody listening!" To get your point across someone needs to be listening with their ears open, not closed. What this person actually hears is you gladly and graciously thanking him for this opportunity!! What you are actually saying is, "Is there no one else without other responsibilities who can do this job each week?" The question is passed over quickly, " no they want you." So you sit there wondering what is so magical about you that there is none other!! While some would be 'bustin' their buttons' and feeling excited about this you give up trying to persuade this 'do-gooder" that your plate is really full -- and no thanks.
So you find yourself trapped in a situation, resentful, and feeling like a victim of persuasive techniques over which you have no control. Slowly seething....wondering how this will all play out when you come to your senses.
Friday, October 10, 2014
Equality and Pairage
What is hoped to be accomplished when two people of the same gender unite their lives in "pairage?" I don't see how you can call it marriage because that, according to the good book called the Bible, happens between two people who can procreate as in man and wife. You can't change anatomy and biology. Mother Nature decreed it. It reminds one of laws put into effect when a great majority of the public disagree. The public (by and large) will by and large obey the law of the land but will not accept the law. So...simply passing a law and allowing pairage changes nothing in the minds of people who believe differently. If what is expected is the acceptance by all.... that can quickly be dismissed. Don't be blinded with the emotion involved. It only clouds the issue; there is no clarity. Probably most hurtful to those participating in pairage is that those they would like to most accept their union will not; thus that desire goes unfulfilled. Some will even feel hatred. THat part is sad for all involved.
I understand that which is desired by those thus afflicted. But no person on this earth can change the laws of God. The law is bound by creation -- none of us have or control that power. At the same time not many people would want to deny anyone of happiness in this earthly sojourn. It is difficult at best.
On the other hand some of these people involved in pairages have either had children by obtaining children (or a child) through adoption or artificial insemination of some sort. Others may have been previously married and have children they bring into a pairage with them. None of us would deny that these children are loved. But they are, in many cases, denied the opportunity to be parented by a parent of each sex. While one can say this happens all of the time in our society one can agree that it does although that is not always the most desirable type of parenting, assuming abuse of no type be involved in the parenting.
I know that the decisions being made by the court have been long awaited by many pairs. However, I am not certain that it will ever accomplish what seems to be most desired.....unless what is desired is joint benefits as in $$$$.
I don't expect anyone the agree with me. I don't apologize for what I believe and see as the big picture. I do not think I have stated anything in this blog that is not true. Do you have an opinion??
I understand that which is desired by those thus afflicted. But no person on this earth can change the laws of God. The law is bound by creation -- none of us have or control that power. At the same time not many people would want to deny anyone of happiness in this earthly sojourn. It is difficult at best.
On the other hand some of these people involved in pairages have either had children by obtaining children (or a child) through adoption or artificial insemination of some sort. Others may have been previously married and have children they bring into a pairage with them. None of us would deny that these children are loved. But they are, in many cases, denied the opportunity to be parented by a parent of each sex. While one can say this happens all of the time in our society one can agree that it does although that is not always the most desirable type of parenting, assuming abuse of no type be involved in the parenting.
I know that the decisions being made by the court have been long awaited by many pairs. However, I am not certain that it will ever accomplish what seems to be most desired.....unless what is desired is joint benefits as in $$$$.
I don't expect anyone the agree with me. I don't apologize for what I believe and see as the big picture. I do not think I have stated anything in this blog that is not true. Do you have an opinion??
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