Using Assessment Effectively

1. Using Assessment Effectively

5. Assessment Options Selected Response or Short Answer Multiple choice, true/false, matching, short answer, fill-in the blank Extended Written Response Essays, comparisons, analysis of literature of artwork, etc. Performance Assessment Based on observation or judgment; projects, musical performances Personal Communication Responding to students� comments in journals and logs; interviews; teacher observations; oral examinations.

6. Using Assessment Data Here�s what, So what �. NOW WHAT?

9. Following Assessment Move on with those who are ready (look at flexible grouping) Intervene, intervene, intervene Assess again.

10. Grading What is our purpose for grading? What factors should we include in the grade? How do we combine those factors to give the truest picture possible of student achievement?

11. Grading Principles The purpose of grades is to communicate. Grades communicate about achievement. Grades reflect current level of achievement.

13. Discuss these questions with your tablemates What does each student�s �C� communicate? Should grades be used to motivate or punish students? Should effort be included in grades? What other factors should be included in grades (e.g. attendance, homework, turning work in on time, participation, attitude)

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15. I�m partially proficient I held the school accountable for teaching what schools should teach. So when state assessments first began, I was anxious to see where my son�s school would stand. My son�s so bright, you know. I marvel every day at his observations of life � His insights into everything from the cranky old neighbor across the street to the complexities of global strife. He�s so full of life, my son. His laughter shatters even the gloomiest day, Warms the hardest of hearts, and lightens the burdens that come my way. He�s an avid reader, you know, my son. Lazy Saturday afternoons include sharing Garfield cartoons And basketball stats pepper Sunday afternoons. He never cared much for writing, my son. But letters to his uncle keep squadron spirits alive, And are kept close at heart until the next one arrives.

16. (continued) He�s a kind boy, my son. Oh, he quibbles with friends, and sometimes he�s cross, But he tears up at movies if children aren�t loved and his heart nearly breaks over pets that are lost. He�s all I could ever want in a son. Since his birth my life has been joy without measure. He is a gift-beautiful and treasured. But today, I stopped caring about state assessments, school ranking or accountability. My son, my gift, my treasure, announced when he came home, �I�m partially proficient, Mom.�