Likert Scales and Semantic Differential Scales

Likert scales are questionnaires. The questions are written with a 4-, 5-, or 6-point scale in which the students select a number that represents the level in which they agree. Likert scales often focus on generalizations. The best items do not have a clear cut answer found in a book. Semantic Differential Scales place opposite characteristics/traits/qualities at opposite ends of a scale. Then, students decide how much of the characteristic/trait/quality the item has. Both scales encourage students to not only think but engage in discussions. Both promote higher-level thinking by requiring students to discuss the reasons for their choices, draw conclusions, make inferences, use text as support, and make connections. Likert scales and semantic differential scales can also be used as a pre- and postassessment to show students thinking before and after a unit of study. Procedure: 1. Decide on the topic, attributes, and/or qualities to focus on. Choose your pairings or statements that require some reflection and do not have an obvious choice. Include only 4 to 5 items per scale. 2. Introduce the scale and model how the thinking required to answer each question 3. Have students respond to scales individually. Then, meet in small groups to discuss and defend their choices. 4. If using as a pre-assessment, have students revisit the scale after acquiring new knowledge, followed by additional discussion. Likert Scale Example: 1. Eating a lot of fruit is part of a healthy diet. Strongly disagree disagree agree strongly agree

Semantic Differential Scale Example: 1. Fats are

H. Liddle/H.Moyer

Healthy

Unhealthy

Beers, 2003

H. Liddle/H.Moyer