Page 52 - Year-Long Plan_Neat

Assessment is the process of gathering data. It is a way that teachers gather data about their

teaching and their students’ learning. There are three types of assessment: diagnostic, formative, and

summative. In this paper I intend to cover the different types of assessment and the benefits to the

student and the teacher for demonstrate learning.

Assessment data provides teachers information to identify strengths and weaknesses in student

performance and to all improve the quality of teaching and learning. Typically, assessment is considered

during the planning stage of instruction when learning outcomes are targeted. Assessment is a

continuous and ongoing process and not something that is done simply at the end of a unit. Having a

clear purpose and clear learning targets is an essential part of developing assessment.

There are distinct differences between the three types of assessment. Diagnostic assessment

can help identify students’ current knowledge of a subject and their strengths and weaknesses. It is a

form of measurement that happens prior to instruction. Examples of diagnostic assessment include but

are not limited to pre-tests, self-assessments, interviews, graphic organizers, and journal entries.

Formative assessment is similar to diagnostic assessment but differs because it occurs throughout the

learning process. Formative assessment measures student progress and provides feedback and

information during the instructional process, while learning is taking place and occurring. Examples of

formative assessment include but are not limited to observations, conferences, question and answer

sessions, and homework exercises as review for an upcoming test or quiz. Summative assessment takes

place after the learning has been completed and provides information and feedback that sums up the

learning process.

Examples of summative assessment include but are not limited to final exams, projects, portfolios, and

term papers.

Assessments are a valuable tool that benefit both the teacher and the student.