The true purpose of assessment is to gather evidence of student learning that will inform instructional decisions in ways that maximize that learning. Assessment allows us to continuously analyze student progress toward mastery of content/skills.
Assessments are categorized as either formative or summative: • Formative – On-going Assessment for Learning. These are assessments conducted throughout teaching & learning to diagnose student needs, plan the next steps in instruction, & provide students with feedback they can use to improve the quality of their work. Focus is on improvement & student growth. • Summative – Comprehensive Assessment of Learning. These are assessments that occur after learning has taken place. The primary purpose of this assessment is for accountability; to certify student competence or to sort students according to achievement. Examples would be achievement tests, CATS, final exams, placement tests, short cycle assessments & grade on report card. |
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