TeenBiz™ is the first instruction solution that delivers truly differentiated reading and writing assignments based on each student's actual Lexile™ level.
- Assess. Students' Lexile levels are assessed initially using LevelSet™, a proprietary assessment tool that determines each student's level of comprehension for informational text. This enables progress to be made immediately, without spending precious time identifying students' correct levels.
- Individualize. Each day, students receive level-appropriate, standards-aligned nonfiction reading/writing assignments via email. The Web-based assignments are interactive, engaging and highly motivating. They provide more time on task and more practice - which in turn fosters gains in reading comprehension, writing skills and vocabulary development across subject areas.
- Reassess. Students' levels of comprehension are monitored by a daily formative assessment of students' reading comprehension abilities. However, in order to measure Lexile growth, a second administration of LevelSet is given mid-year so that students' Lexiles can be adjusted and more appropriate-leveled assignments can be delivered. A post assessment is done at the end of the year when another version of LevelSet is administered.
- Report. TeenBiz also provides teachers and administrators with ongoing management reports and diagnostic data that enable individualized intervention and remediation based on a given student's needs.
TeenBiz™ utilizes a five-step process designed and scientifically validated to spur literacy achievement among teen-age students.
- Set a schema. Students read and reply to a daily email, which sets the stage for what they are about to read. Students start reading and writing in an informal environment that encourages them to make text-to-self connections.
- Read for information. The email directs students to an appropriately leveled, nonfiction article at the Achieve3000 Web site that engages and involves students via real-world topics.
- Demonstrate mastery. After reading the article, students answer questions that monitor comprehension, vocabulary mastery and higher-order thinking skills.
- Construct meaning. Students build critical cognitive skills by writing responses to open-ended questions.
- Form an opinion. Students also participate in a poll about the article so they can demonstrate opinions - the real manifestation of reading comprehension.
What's more, assignments, activities and integrated formative assessments are all aligned with state standards and scientifically proven to dramatically accelerate gains in reading levels, vocabulary acquisition, writing ability and high-stakes test scores.
Here's what Waipahu High students are saying about Teenbiz 3000...
"Teenbiz has helped me because it makes me want to read more."
"I think Teenbiz is a good program to help under-developed readers get to the level they should be at. It's a good way to incorporate technology into education."
"It really helped me in reading and it feels great when I do the activities."
"Teenbiz has helped me to read and I also learn about the articles."
"Teenbiz 3000 has helped me a lot because it strengthens my reading skills and teaches me about various subjects that's happening in our world."
"I like Teenbiz because it helps me better my reading skills. I also like it because I get to choose what topic I want to read about and I get to learn about different subjects."
"I feel that Teenbiz is a great way to helping students at WHS improve their reading skills."
"...Teenbiz teaches me to love reading."
"Teenbiz has helped me to broaden my vocabulary and comprehension ability when reading. I feel that Teenbiz will be sucessful in helping students read because you reach them through technology and not just books."
"Teenbiz 3000 has significantly improved my vocabulary..."
