Moderation - the key to making the standards work for us.

On Friday I attended a 'cluster writing moderation' meeting.  Each school sent teachers and management along with four samples each to be moderated within the cluster group.  Attending these meetings shows how far our cluster has come with regard to collaboration between schools.  In sharing our writing, and moderating it, the feeling of collegiality is strong.  There is no animosity nor is there any person trying to push an agenda or trying to prove a point.  A strong sense of opportunity to learn is on offer and a determination to get things right is at the forefront of all those with the responsibility of representing their school at these meetings...and to take new learning back to the classroom.
So, what did I take from today's meeting?

• The depth of writing across the cluster is improving with each sample I read.  The use of a device gives students an opportunity to put more on paper, add greater detail and description and develop their writing with more depth.   
• The writing rubric is a great tool that requires consideration of interpretation.  Open discussion is required in order for those who use it to get the best out of it.  Teachers can't be precious about their views around the rubric, they must open to interpretation from others and take ideas on board where agreed.
• Our cluster is miles ahead in collaboration.  We have so many opportunities to work together that the comfort of knowing each other and willingness to collaborate is comfortable and open.  In cases where agreement wasn't reached, the 'agree to disagree' was collegial and had the minds ticking over to explain points for and against each case.

 The formative information that comes from the rubric and in moderating with colleagues is immense.  It's important that all teachers and management teams have an open, collegial environment to ensure the best conditions for collaboration are nurtured.  Manaiakalani is very lucky that there is such collegiality between schools and it is wonderful to be part of such a forward thinking community.