Which Assessment Works Best? A Matching Test for Educators

Match the statement at the top with the appropriate method from the list at the bottom. (Some methods may apply to more than one item)

1. I want to figure out how to improve my teaching in my classroom.

2. I want to figure out how to revise my classroom curriculum.

3. I want to figure out how to place students in different levels of instruction.

4. I want to assess students’ “habits of mind” (such as evaluating evidence or making     connections).

5. I want to assess the basic skills of literacy or numeracy.

6. I want to assess what content knowledge students have in a specific area.

7. I want to figure out how to improve our school’s program or set new school-wide goals.

8. I want to check whether all students have the opportunity to learn at challenging levels.

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A. I analyze scores of my students on a standardized test that ranks students on a curve      in companison to all other students in the state or nation who took the same test (a      “norm-referenced” test).

B. I analyze scores of my students on a standardized test that measures whether a     student has reached a particular level (such as “basic” or “proficient”) in relation to a     particular set of state or national standards (a “standards-referenced” test).

C. I ask my students to show me that they can “do” the subject I have taught, by using     the knowledge and skill in carrying out a complex task to the standards set in my     classroom or school.

D. I develop and give my students a written test or quiz (multiple- choice, short-answer,     or essay) that draws on the specific knowledge and skills I have been teaching.

E. I solicit my students’ thoughts through an interview, survey, or written reflection.

F. I analyze student work using rubrics that describe performance at various levels.

G. I observe students at work on a project.