Assessments

Frequent assessments check for understanding. They tell us which students are learning, which students need more help, and how to stay on track.

Frequent assessments help to chart student progress and identify students who require early intervention. They also help the teachers know when and where to adjust their teaching methods. When a large number of students have not mastered a skill, then the instructional timeline must be adjusted so more time can be devoted to a particular concept.

The assessment needs to be used as a teaching tool. Assessments should be 4-5 questions per skill. Before administering an assessment to students, it is a good idea for the teacher to take the test to ensure there are no mistakes and it is not too easy or difficult for the students.

Benefits of frequent assessments:

• Provide immediate feedback
• Diagnose teaching effectiveness/weaknesses
• Provide the data needed for early intervention
• Eliminate surprises on the state standard assessment
• Track student performance for teacher and parents