Vitaly By Kramer Summary

Kramer discusses the importance of building a relationship with students and knowing what is beneficial for each individuals learning. Vitaly is a student of Kramer’s who is an English language learner. Kramer describes the difficulties he has communicating with Vitaly but still manages to teach him through hands on activities. Kramer focuses on simple English terms with Vitaly because Kramer knows Vitaly’s limitations. Lindsey is also a student of Kramer’s; Lindsey is an auditory learner. She remembers what she hears. Although she is shy, she is very creative and an exceptional facilitator. Kramer realizes Lindsey needs more of a discussion-based instruction. Another student of Kramer’s is Logan. Logan likes to work slowly because he thinks deeply about his work before he answers a question or draws a picture. Logan needs to work at his own pace but will produce very creative and intellectual responses if allowed. Kramer’s familiarity with his …show more content…
He believes current testing does not benefit students in any way. “Testing can once again serve teaching if tests clarify and set intellectual standards” (Wiggins, 1989, p. 252). He also believes students need to show a mastery of material before graduating and current tests do not monitor that. Kohn agrees with both Wiggins and Kramer. Kohn believes “standardized-test scores often measure superficial thinking” (Kohn, 2000, p. 244). He believes testing does not demonstrate teacher or student ability. Kromboltz and Yeh’s opinion on standardized testing is very similar to Kramer and Kohn’s opinions. All three educators believe “competitive grading can redefine and distort the underlying purpose of education, which is to help every student learn” (Krumboltz & Yeh, 1996, p. 265). Each educator previously mentioned believes standardized testing “turns teachers into students opponents, justifies inadequate teaching methods and styles, and trivializes course content” (Krumboltz & Yeh, 1996, p.