The Role of Assessment

Purposes of Assessment
The methods used to gain info about students learning
Formative- an ongoing part of instruction designed to
provide feedback about students learning as it is
occurring
Ex: exit cards, observation
Summative- evaluation of students learning after
instruction has taken place
Ex: tests, projects, exams

What Can Be Measured?

Assessment measures teaching effectiveness over time to improve
education.
Teachers constantly monitor whether students are reaching their set goals
and objectives in learning
Measured against district, state, or national state standards in the form of
standardized tests.
Gives feedback that can offer encouragement or highlight issues of
concern.
Being attuned to learning helps teachers modify their teaching to maximize
student achievement.

Using Tests to Assess Learning

Tests scores are used in a variety of ways
o ACT/SAT
Teachers develop tests to check students knowledge
and understanding
Different types of questions
Constructing tests to fairly evaluate students learning
o questions that match levels of objectives
o provide clear directions
o be sure questions do not give answers or clues to
other questions

Using Alternative Assessment Strategies

Range from written papers to multimedia presentations
Students create something that shows what they know
Alternative assessments encourage creativity for
teachers and students
Variety of methods other than test to evaluate students
Demonstrates knowledge and skills linked to real life
Are meant to evaluate students improvement over
time

Choosing Assessment Strategies

You need to choose something age appropriate.
If the assessment is age appropriate, they should be able to complete what
is requested of them.
You should test during the middle of a unit. This is best because a lot of
information can be lost throughout the unit. Testing during the middle of
the unit will refresh their memory.
Make sure you choose an assessment that is following a learning
objective.

Determining Grades and Providing Feedback

The purpose of grades is to show feedback on students learning, their performance, and
progress.

Direct feedback is more effective because it helps students improve.

All teachers should make a grading plan before hand and communicate it to her students in the
beginning so everyone understands.

Grades should reflect the students learning. Behavior, attendance, or other factors should not be
a factor.

Not every activity/assignment should be scored.

Test scores should be graded higher than homework and other assignments.