[Phys-l] Cow 1 is not Cow 2 (Obama and testing)

["Dr Holly Priestley" <HPriestley5@comcast.net>]

> Discuss whether or not a mushroom should be considered a predator.  Please
explain your reasoning.

 

With the above question you are now asking for distinction between
definitions.  Usually a predator refers to something that preys on living
things.  Those that seek out already dead are considered scavengers.
Perhaps that would be a better questions, "if a mushroom a scavenger".
However, since fungi break down their food supply outside of the cell and
then absorb their nutrients (hence the damage done by mildew to tents and
shoes) they are termed saprophytes.  So, basically, in order to answer that
question the student has to have memorized the basic definitions.

 

Just my humble thoughts.  

 

In regards to these tests - usually they are not just general knowledge
through a course type of test - they are very specific.  Husband worked on
the creation of our Commonwealth's Biology and Chemistry exams and reported
that they were not just general knowledge but specific and difficult
questions.  Since not all students obligate themselves to take the exams
seriously it makes it extremely difficult to assure that all students are
prepared - along with all the other problems with the NCLB testing.

 

Holly Priestley, EdD