Teaching to the Test - A Snippet

Every few years, I am asked to teach the 5th graders plant science.  I have a lesson plan, handouts, and two different experiments in my tool kit.  The scholars are respectful and attentive, for the most part.  After all, Grandma's out of the garden and in front of the classroom; that's enough to grab their attention.

And, I must admit, I have a lot of laughs built into the presentations.  Some are silly jokes, and some border on the uncomfortable for these tweens.  After all, sex is a big part of plant life (the birds and the bees play an important role) and thinking about sex is a big part of fifth grade life, too. 

Today, though, something changed.  The teacher coordinating my appearances started out by asking if I'd help them with the test.  

The test?  What test?  She promised to send me more information about it.  

But all of a sudden my foray into the classroom has real life consequences.  I thought I was extra curricular.  Turns out I am integral to measuring their performance.

I'm just a little bit more anxious now.