Standardized Testing
When assessing students for learning, assessment can be both formative and summative. Teachers choose assessment methods that are best suited for assessing student progress during instruction. Informal observation, assessing nonverbal behavior, and questioning will provide valuable information that is followed with effective feedback to students. Instruction is adjusted while teaching and is used to determine when and how to revisit content that has been taught.
Summative assessment is usually thought of tests, papers, and other assignments. PASS is one type of summative assessment and is done at the end of the school year.
The formative approach is useful in giving teachers and students feedback on the nature and progress of student learning throughout the year. Formative assessment techniques are not used to assign grades, but rather to gain a sense of what students have mastered and where they are struggling.
Regardless of the approach, assessment should always be linked to state objectives. Whatever techniques or approach is used, and attempt to understand to what degree students are learning the material is always the goal. Assessment should be regular and on-going with information used to guide further instruction and support students’ individual needs.
In summary, teachers establish and clearly communicate learning goals for all students. Information about student performance is collected from a variety of sources. Teachers involve all students in assessing their own learning by using information from a variety of ongoing assessments. This information is used to plan and adjust learning opportunities that promote academic achievement and personal growth for all students. Teachers exchange information about student learning with students, families, and support personnel in a way that improves understanding and encourages further academic progress.
