79. Ms. Thorn, a fourth-grade teacher, has her students graph correct words per minute for each repeated reading. Which TWO of the following reasons are the primary purposes for having students graph correct words per minute (cwpm)?

Answer: B, D

Explanation:

B, D

Graphing correct words per minute (cwpm) serves as a motivational tool and supports goal setting for students as they visualize their progress over time.

A) Grouping students

Grouping students is not a primary purpose of graphing cwpm. While data may be used to identify reading levels for grouping, the focus of this exercise is on individual student progress rather than on categorizing students into groups.

B) Motivation

Motivation is a key reason for having students graph their cwpm. By seeing their improvement visually represented, students are encouraged to engage more deeply with their reading practice and strive for better performance.

C) Grade reporting

Grade reporting is not the primary purpose of graphing cwpm. Although cwpm data can be used in assessments and evaluations, the act of graphing tends to focus more on personal growth and progress rather than formal grading.

D) Goal setting

Goal setting is an essential purpose for graphing cwpm as it allows students to set personal benchmarks and strive towards achieving them. This visual representation helps students understand their own reading abilities and encourages them to aim for specific improvement targets.

E) Data point plotting

Data point plotting, while a technical aspect of graphing, is not a primary purpose in the context of student engagement and learning. The intent behind graphing goes beyond just plotting points; it is about fostering motivation and setting goals.

Conclusion

Graphing correct words per minute is fundamentally about motivating students and helping them set achievable goals in their reading practice. Options B and D accurately reflect these core purposes, while the other options either misinterpret the intent or focus on secondary aspects that do not align with the primary educational objectives.