I agreed with all ten research-based principles of Assessment for Learning (AFL), but I guess this one speaks to me the most:
AFL should recognize the full range of achievements of all learners
I think our current method of testing has critical flaws. I see bright students solving the problems presented in our math lessons, yet they do not do well on the tests. I am not sure if they don't memorize facts well, or if they have trouble deciphering the word problems, or if they just have some sort of testing anxiety, but for some reason they aren't able to showcase their understanding on regular tests. I think if we could give these same students a simulated environment and gave them real life problems to solve, they would excel. On the other hand, I see students that will ace a test, but can't problem, solve their way out of a paper sack. Too, I think formative assessments could get increasing more difficult, so that all students could find some success in their abilities. This type of assessment would allow a teacher to grade on a students improvement, and not by another students achievements or abilities.
I think the portfolio will give us the opportunity to showcase our understanding and abilities much better than a multiple choice final exam would.
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