Blogging Challenge, Day 5 of 20

Today's challenge: Give a tip for assessment. What is an example of an assessment you give? Share any tips for designing/administering/grading assessments.

 Assessments...the bane of my existence. Actually, I think inviting students to show what they know and can do with their language acquisition is a natural classroom activity. But WHY do I have to assign a numerical value to it? 

If I could throw out the gradebook and regularly update students on their language proficiency progression, we would accomplish so much more! If we had time to read books (at any level) and discuss (at any level) the stories, if we had time to share current events, or use a day each week for Show & Tell, if we had time to explore language learning/practice games. But, students, parents, college admissions and the voting public want us to STOP TEACHING/LEARNING to provide evidence that we have taught/learned. Whaaaat?!!

We DO have time for all of the above, but then have to STOP in September/October for pre-assessments, in  December for mid-year proficiency checks, in January we administer mid-term exams, in March the Sophomore class takes the OGT, by mid-April we have to give post-assessments, and before students leave for summer break, they take final exams. 

Now, include regular skill checks throughout the year (context & structure in my classes) and we have significantly reduced the time available for students to use the language in natural, conversational circumstances.

In my perfect world, students would be assessed at the beginning of the year to establish their baseline proficiency level and would be provided with a target for the year, as well as a "road map" to get there. Mid-year, we would set aside time for another check, so students could be encouraged by evidence of their progress, and finally, at the end of the year one final assessment to prove they achieved the target. Any skill checks along the way would be formative. Students wouldn't be punished for what they don't know or can't do; they would be celebrated for acquiring new/improved skills.

So, I haven't addressed the challenge today. I guess I'll have to come back to it in the future!

(18 June 2014) P.S. I just read this article and think it fits beautifully with my thoughts! 

http://http://starrsackstein.com/category/miss-can-i-get-some-extra-credit/