Social Studies Assessment Item Writer (Contractor)

Work Setting:
Remote work, not at ESC Region 13

Reports To:
TEKS Resource System Social Studies Content Coordinator (and/or Program Manager)

Salary:
$20-25 per item in batches of 5 to 20 (contingent on accepted items)

Primary Purpose:
Expected to work remotely, not at ESC Region 13. Work independently under the supervision of the TEKS Resource System Social Studies Content Coordinator (and/or Program Manager) to develop Social Studies assessment items aligned to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) Social Studies standards. This includes creating and writing original assessment items that may include stimuli that observe copyright and fair use. Items are typically multiple choice and may often require a stimulus. Occasionally constructed-response items will be required including a rubric and/or a sample student answer.

Education/Certification:

• Texas Teacher Certification (required)
• Bachelor's degree in education or Social Studies related field (required)
• Master's degree in curriculum, instruction, and assessment or Social Studies related field (preferred)
  

Experience:

• Five years Social Studies classroom teaching experience (required)
• Experience with assessment writing (preferred)
  

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Comprehensive content knowledge that spans multiple grade-levels
• Knowledge of Social Studies TEKS that spans multiple grade-levels
• Comprehensive knowledge of effective assessment writing
• Current knowledge of assessment trends
• Exceptionally strong command of the English language including conventions of grammar and mechanics with strong revising and editing skills
• Knowledge of item formatting and style associated with accountability testing in Texas
• Knowledge of applicable copyright and fair use regulations for educational assessment
• Skills in Microsoft Office Suite (required) and other online technologies such as SharePoint and Google Drive (preferred)
• Knowledge and skills in conducting research to verify the accuracy of content related to Social Studies as well as to locate valid sources of Social Studies related information for use as an assessment item stimulus
  

Responsibilities:

• Serve as a representative of ESC Region 13, displaying courtesy, tact, consideration and discretion in all interactions with other members of the educational community and with the public.
• Create and write original drafts of the TEKS Resource System assessment items.
• Collaborate with Social Studies Coordinator and/or Program Manager regarding development and constructive feedback.
• Revise and edit writing with strong attention to detail.
• Revise any returned items according to feedback prior to completion of the contract.
• Clearly communicate progress regarding development efforts including timelines, areas of concern, and potential solutions to the Social Studies Coordinator and/or Program Manager.
• Reliably meet deadlines and deliver quality products.
• Work productively in a virtual environment with reliance on video conferencing, email, and phone as primary forms of communication.
• Attend, as necessary, all meetings/trainings which may be delivered in-person, online/video, and/or by phone.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  

Equipment Used:

• Computer
• Software for virtual meeting capabilities
• MS Word
  

Working Conditions:
Physical Demands:

• Periodic overnight travel may be required
• Hearing, speaking, visual acuity
  

Mental Demands:

• Adherence to and flexibility with required deadlines
• Maintain emotional control
  

Environmental:

• Ability to sit at a desk and/or work on computer for prolonged periods
  

The above statements are intended to describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not intended to represent an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills that may be required.