By quietly observing students in candid and natural states of learning, teachers gauge the knowledge and skills of students without issuing formal tests. Educators may either observe a student without interrupting or keep track of student responses while engaging her with prompts and activities. When students demonstrate behaviors significant to their learning goals, observant teachers should make a quick note of it without distracting from class activities. Teachers can also ask parents and caregivers to share learning observations from home.
Educators create many forms of assessment documentation, such as tests, class worksheets, homework and notes based on student observation. Starting a portfolio for each student at the start of a school year gives teachers a way to organize and reference demonstrated knowledge and skills of learners. Educators can sort through materials in a student portfolio when preparing for student assessments and parent conferences. When teachers organize portfolios properly, they can present parents with evidence of learning and send it home with students at the end of the year.
Teachers use standardized tests and checklists as a way to formally evaluate the educational growth of students in the classroom. While written tests allow educators to view the knowledge of students, some learners can't convey the things they know when confronted with these intimidating assessments. To address the diversity in the classroom, teachers should issue additional forms of testing by allowing students to verbally and physically demonstrate skills and knowledge.
Educators motivate students to learn by asking them to analyze their own progress in school. These student-driven assessments will provide insight for teachers when doing their evaluations of the class. Students should develop learning goals at the beginning of a school year and continually refer to the goals to track their progress. By playing an active part in their educational process, students learn to take responsibility for achievements and shortcomings. Working on these goals with the students creates an ongoing assessment opportunity for teachers.