Post #7

So what is assessment?  Well, it does NOT have to be a test.  Well, it can, doesn't need be.  There are formal and informal assessments.  Formal is the kind that most people hate.  Multiple choice, short answer, fill in the blank, true-false, and the ever dreaded essay.  The other kind is informal, or authentic.  This is usually much more relaxed; the student may not even know he/she is being tested (e.g. observations, portfolio), or the student may perform the action or skill demonstrating they have learned.

In my Science class I should be able to use authentic assessments for my students.

Obviously the easiest to do would be the ever-popular science project.  With this, the students can demonstrate their understanding of the scientific method and how to apply it properly.  Using a rubric, I can amke sure that the students understand it.  Accuracy, while still important, would be second to application.

Another way would be through science labs.  The students would be able to show that they not only have learned the content (what the products of a certain reaction would be) but also the ability to perform it properly (using the lab equipment properly and safely).

One way to assess student learning is by simple observation.  Whether a student participates in class discussions.  Whether he/she uses content-specific language in said discussions.  Whether they can apply known information towards unknown (hypothesizing).  I believe that having the knowledge is most useful when you can walk the walk and talk the talk, otherwise it is a bit wasted.  What good is it if you cannot, or do not, do anything with it outside of spewing it onto a test?