Good morning ... back in FL today after a gratifying trip to NY for #SpringBoard@DougSBoard Teacher of Distinction mtg. Sylvia, Writing Coach/ RDG Tchr @BrandonHSEagles & moderator of the #HackLearning slow chat!
Hello everyone and thanks for being here. I am a High School Science Teacher and Instructional Technology Coordinator at Neuqua Valley in Naperville, IL. I'm excited to be here learning you all this morning. #HackLearning
A1: rigorous assessment means complex tasks - formative assessment must give a clear picture of student success with the pre-requisite components #hacklearning
Formative assessment happens throughout learning to be sure students are on the right track. If we wait too long - it could be too late to adjust the path. #HackLearning
Good morning #hacklearning! Carla, secondary principal from Santo Domingo, Dom Rep. where our 9th grade Ss celebrated world kindness day all week. It was uplifting and heartwarming.
A1 - Most essential? The students will be mentally engaged with the appropriate material. Without mental engagement, all of the physical engagement in the world means nothing. #HackLearning
A1 knowing which standard you are addressing ... and determine that the assessment is to know what students know (not catch them with what they don’t know) #HackLearning
A1: Both the teacher and the students need to be able to connect questions to the learning process. A good assessment must be linked to learning moments, resources, and activities. #HackLearning
A1: Laura Ebersole here for King of Prussia. The most important part of designing effective and engaging assessment is FEEDBACK. Make sure your students are part of the learning cycle. #hacklearning
A1: assessment needs to be designed to get honest student effort. Anyone can guess or go through the motions, but honest assessment needs real effort from students. If it fails to do so then it’s faulty in what it shows Ts #HackLearning
A1 It is essential to design assessments that students will be able to demonstrate their learning effectively - multiple assessment types not one size fits all #hacklearning
A1: Ss should have a choice how to express their learning - through writing a paper, creating a poster, performing a sketch, drawing out a comic strip, writing a children’s book, etc. Lots of options & ways to show what they learned. #UDL#hacklearning
A1: Patience with the yourself and the Ss, ensuring there is something everyone can learn(content and/or skill), everyone feels valued and seen( windows/mirrors)#hacklearning
A1: I also think that the best assessments have questions that get students thinking. If most of the the answers are just a Google search away, why am I asking them? #HackLearning
Being able to identify the learning target (I used that term to let @JSAPrincipal know I listen during PD LOL) is important when creating assessments ... in my Social Studies world that target could be a combination of several standards. #hacklearning
This week I asked my students what kind of feedback they wanted — appreciative, coaching, or evaluative (or combo) ... they liked having a choice to guide them on the path they wanted — didn’t matter to me, all timely feedback is good! #HackLearning
A1: Does it assess what students are actually learning? Are there opportunities for students to demonstrate and apply what they are learning? Is it authentic, and does it relate to what they might experience after graduation? #hacklearning
I like to focus on choice ➡️ making sure there’s something there that each student can accomplish... and might even get a little excited about doing. 😊 #HackLearning
A1: Formative assessment is quality control. There has to be a variety of checks before production. Formative assessments should be written around the always and forever standards. When placed on the schedule, there needs to be time to respond to instruction. #hacklearning
A1. It's essential that students know why their being assessed. Ideally, give them choice to show their knowledge. (Imagine a skit, a drawing, a board game that shows they mastered the subject.)
#HackLearning
when creating assessments it is important to understand that assessment does not have to mean multiple choice test ... although many choose this route because it is easier and faster to grade. #hacklearning
A1 Allow Ss to self-assess, then conference with them to see why they assessed themselves the way they did & give feedback to help them improve. When assessment is part of the learning cycle, Ss don't fear it. #HackLearning
This difference between formative and summative assessment isn't the task or tool - it's how it's used. Exit ticket can be formative or summative. #HackLearning
I like this, Margie. Once evaluated, effective assessments don't statically gather dust. They show ways forward, by spotlighting what to celebrate, where to stretch next, or what might need more work. #hacklearning
A1: Additionally, ensure the assessment allows for students to show what they know in a way they can shine. Multiple choice doesn't work for everyone. #hacklearninghttps://t.co/iWsxpdR8lq
A1- It is important to allow students to have a voice in their assessment. Allow students to choose what tool they use to explain their knowledge (typing, video, visual, ect)
#HackLearning
Yes ... I remember a student who said when x=0 that in y=3x-4, y=26 ... I asked how? ... she said “I plugged it in .. 30-4=26” I replied Ahh I see how you got that. Now, let’s fix the thinking (not the problem) ☺️ #HackLearning
A1: I guess allowing Ss to demonstrate their knowledge by a method comfortable to their learning style. While also helping them become familiar with the common style of multiple choice as it exists on all levels as entrance/exit exams for colleges and jobs. #HackLearning
Absolutely important! Differentiation for the wide range of abilities in every class - but the high interest needs to be there for each student! #HackLearning
a1(2/2):Formative assessments that provide opportunties for self- reflection and feedback( two way). Assessments that give Ss a chance to do better, learn from the assessment. etymoly of assess- Latin assidere ‘sit by'. Are we sitting with the Ss? #hacklearning
A2: I believe it is important to engage students with assessment in a variety of ways. My PLN has helped me put together a nice collection of assessment resources and activities that we've shared here: https://t.co/zv5MMYvoIS#HackLearning
A2: Google Forms works well for gathering feedback. Choice Boards, Book Clubs, single point rubrics, Genius Hour all allow students Voice and Choice in learning. #hacklearning
A2 - This is a strategy I use in my classroom...allows students to self-assess and also see what they don't know and what they need to study...provides wonderful feedback for the students. Also, it's easily adaptable.
https://t.co/qfhAgH4XCL#HackLearning
Moderation in all things - including assessments. Nothing wrong with multiple choice as long is that is not the only type of assessment all year.
#HackLearning
A2: Learn how to eliminate barriers, discover different ways for students to learn & express their learning, & think about how you can motivate students/incorporate students’ interests to engage them. Check out @ElizabethLStein & @KatieNovakUDL & their books! #hacklearning#udl
Q2: The greatest resource is an interdependent collaborative team of teachers having rich discussions about what students should know and be able to do as a result of instruction. In that discussion should be, how will we respond when some don’t get it? #hacklearning
A2: Many of our teachers use digital tools like One Note to support their formative assessment. Quick checks & immediate feedback helps address issues sooner. #HackLearning
A2: Remember you need to see if all students are understanding. Have them work in groups & utilize turn & talks to listen in/observe what they are getting & what they aren’t. It’s not representative when you have the same few kids raising their hands to answer! #hacklearning
A2: We blueprint units ahead of time around standards and multiple levels of student proficiency. Goal is to understand which Ss need remediation and which need extension opportunities. #HackLearning
Q2: The greatest resource is an interdependent collaborative team of teachers having rich discussions about what students should know and be able to do as a result of instruction. In that discussion should be, how will we respond when some don’t get it? #hacklearning
A2 at its simplist — eyes & ears ... ask questions and listen to responses ... I’ve also used @nearpod for individual assessment and effective feedback in the moment so sts can correct thinking while they are thinking #HackLearning
A2: The Ss are the best resources for effective classroom assessments! As the instructor it’s my job to know the strengths of my Ss and the classroom assessment should be designed to accentuate their strengths while also helping them improve weaknesses. #HackLearning
A2: So many to list! Not much better than an Exit Ticket 3-2-1 (3 things you learned, 2 you're still unsure about, & 1 qustions you'd ask)..These should inform tomorrow's tasks. #HackLearning
I think frequent is important. We as Ts should always be assessing, even when it’s not a test or quiz. Allow students to show levels of learning on all assignments #HackLearning
Sounds like some good concepts flowing here ... will you join the conversations this week ? #HackLearning Q2 will be about Thanksgiving! Let’s be thankful this week!
A2: Use technology, whiteboards, or foldables to have ALL students hold up their answers and show their thinking. Again, new to get a read of the whole class, not just the few big participators. #hacklearning
A2: So many to list! Not much better than an Exit Ticket 3-2-1 (3 things you learned, 2 you're still unsure about, & 1 qustions you'd ask)..These should inform tomorrow's tasks. #HackLearning
A2 ➡️ A LOT of student self-assessment/reflection. Also ❤️ choice boards. It’s fun to add to those boards each time we discover a new & interesting way to assess learning. Most recently, creating gifs (via @GIPHY) has been a blast (& shows some deep thinking!) 😁 #HackLearning
A2: We need to remember to record data and then utilize it for planning. Have all students names on a clipboard. Mark down observations and collect data during class. Think about how you can use tech, too, to make this easier. #HackLearning
Effective Formative Assessment starts with an effective lesson ... are the kids being given information in a manner that optimizes learning? This is why I like using #GoogleClassroom as I can drop activity with various resources included #hacklearning
And even practice can and should be assessment. If the goal is to inform instruction, then assessment should not be limited to formal summarize opportunities. #HackLearning
A2: a tool like Webb’s DOK is extremely powerful when building from formative to summarize assessment to ensure Ss have had the chance to engage in multiple ways #HackLearning
I love this example of using conferencing to truly understanding the S's thinking. This is the only way to effectively clear up misconceptions. #hacklearning
In reply to
@RhondaStroud9, @SylviaEllison, @markbarnes19
I agree it is easier and faster it there is a need for them to help Ss be familiar with the format. We also need to help Ss think beyond the limited 4 options for a best answer result. #HackLearning
A2 I'm a fan of standards-based grading approaches that put the data output end of learning (i.e., grades) more in service of various formative & summative inputs. More here via @mctownsley: https://t.co/zM1Beb7zSK#hacklearning
A2: So many! Opportunities for positive failure and re-do's, differentiated demonstrations of learning, effective feedback, student voice & choice, reteaching when necessary. #hacklearning
Great idea. I know a teacher who asks at the end of all assessments, "is there any other learning that you had in this unit that I didn't ask you about?" #HackLearning
We could argue that FORMATIVE assessments should not be graded except for completion. This is when we find out if they're learning what we're teaching or we need a do-over. Be as creative as you like. Just show me you know.
SUMMATIVE assessments are different.
#HackLearning
Actually, I have my Essential Questions (Learning Targets) laid out for me, but my formative questions help students along the way ... simpler questions DO1 then DOK2 and then the bigger DOK3 Summative question. #hacklearning
In reply to
@whiteeducator, @ajgerson, @WickedEdTech
A2: I love all the tech tools out there that can give as immediate feedback. I use quizzing on Canvas, quia and Microsoft forms. I also use polleverywhere and kahoot. With writing peer review is powerful formative assessment I use @CanvasLMS to facilitate that #hacklearning
A3: As teachers, we often take so much time to grade and giving feedback, and then we complain when students don't incorporate it. In reality, we are not giving them time to review feedback or teaching them how to incorporate it. Let's change that! #hacklearning
Hi, Sharon from ElmhurstCUSD 205 A1. Assessments should be varied, address the target, and if possible include student-developed items. Lastly allow students to share what they learned in their own way with choice. #HackLearning
A3: Knowing what they are being assessed on and WHY they need it. Showing connections to other units, subjects, jobs can help them understand why it’s important and if they need to enhance their understanding. #HackLearning
If you have access to tech in class (including kid’s cellphones) @PearDeck is a great tool to accomplish honest assessment, display results, provide immediate information, and not put students on the spot when they lack confidence. #HackLearning
A3 In our school we've been working with S self-assessment plus follow-up conferences. This has been life changing in the way they see learning & assessment.
#HackLearninghttps://t.co/dywxlhm5XK
A3: Anchor charts and student work display are a great way for Ss to see and be able to access the continuum of their learning over the course of a unit/course #HackLearning
A3: Making sure that students are reflective of their own learning is what creates learners. Not just hand it in and I'll grade it later. #HackLearning
The only concern I have about this, and I’ve had it for years even while doing this, is that the Performance Based Merit Pay may cause some Ts to literally “teach to the test” and Ss are still lacking in fundamental thinking skills. #HackLearning
The more formative assessments you employ the less grades ever matter. When Ss tend to lose focus on the learning, realigning them explaining your whys. Transparency of communication and relationships solve many problems.#HackLearning
A3 - Explicit conversations focusing on learning being a process...sometimes getting things wrong is part of the process.
Lay a firm foundation of knowledge down and then build from that.
#HackLearning
Do they need to be familiar with the format? Do I really need to give a weekly multiple guess test so the kids will be properly prepared for the quarterly/End of Year multiple guess district/state mandated test? #hacklearning
Anchor charts are so important. And teachers need to be sure to refer to/remind students of anchors charts! Also, shout students out when they utilize them! #HackLearning
True, formative assessment. is like a cook tasting their recipe. Regular use provides timely feedback to allow for corrections during instruction. Objectives are met and no surprises with summative assessments. #hacklearning
A3: Knowing what they are being assessed on and WHY they need it. Showing connections to other units, subjects, jobs can help them understand why it’s important and if they need to enhance their understanding. #HackLearning
A3: I also think it is important to build a mindset that looks as learning as a continuous process. Too often a unit ends and the students are ready to forget and move on. I try to incorporate key concepts from each unit into the next. #HackLearning
A2 ➡️ My students are loving @quizizz for daily formative assessment. The especially ❤️ the “Live Homework” option which allows them to compete with each other outside school. I keep the game open all week. Summative assessment scores have gone up. 💯 #HackLearning
A2 Digital tools abound (@goformative@Edulastic@Classkick) but also use slides with grid view to see responses in action is a favorite. Nothing beats running math/reading records and conferring with Ss to get at what they really know. #HackLearning
The thing about #HackLearning that everyone is missing is that we are on the verge of runaway climate change and we need a complete re-think of the global economy to ensure a just society & avoid planetary catastrophe.
Also, don’t forget time for reflection, journaling about what went right and what went wrong. Students need to reflect for true assessment #HackLearning
I agree! A clear rubric or knowledge requirement for summative is essential. The students need to trust that you the teacher will guide them on their path. I like to start with a clear path and endgame and then start walking.
#HackLearning
Years before sketch notes because “a thing” I had a student draw his answers for examples of simple machines. He asked me if it were okay before he drew them because he didn’t want his inability to spell the names affect his grade. I had a 💡 moment in 1996 #HackLearning
In reply to
@Media_Barber, @quizizz, @GetKahoot, @Flipgrid
A3. Print out standards or proficiency scales for Ss. Where do they need to be? How will they show you their learning? Set goals with them. #HackLearning
I would like to point out, though, that you don't have to get something wrong, or fail, to learn. I see that sentiment more and more on edutwitter.
#HackLearning
A3: timely and meaningful feedback will help ensure students stay on track. Keep them informed of their own learning and guide them towards strategies to strengthen weaknesses. #hacklearning
A3: Students need to know that any assessment, be it summative or formative, is about the learning. Therefore there is never a destination, all assessments can and will be formative if we, teacher and student team, haven’t acquired the learning. #hacklearning
A3: Creating learning opportunities (PBLs) that "force" the Ss to use skills and content from previous units &even other disciplines. When these opportunities are present, it becomes evident that content isn't isolated to a unit/class. #hacklearning
A3. Where possible, connect to the real world. Even when teaching research skills - I hold candy in my hand to relate Boolean logic to something they can see, feel, & want. Connect with the student!
#HackLearning
Q3: self evaluations - force students to reflect on what they did to prepare, how did that preparation work out, what were their strengths what were their weaknesses? Test corrections - what was the right answer? Why did they get that item wrong? Etc #hacklearning
A2: So many possibilities! Easy no-tech check for understanding: Each student has 3 index cards to place on his/her desk. Triangle: I'm still trying to get the point! Circle: I'm ready to circle back and practice. Square: I'm ready for an out of the box challenge! #hacklearning
Join #HackLearning chat Nov 25 at 8:30-9:00am EDT when Rae Hughart @RaeHughart will be guest moderator leading chat on the "hacky" topic of Community Engagement
I hope it inspires you. If you search for self-assessment on my blog you'll see several posts about what we've been doing. This has made amazing changes in our Ss' attitude to learning in a mater of just a few months.
#hacklearning
not saying they evil ... personally, I love them .... never took a multiple choice test that I could not pass. In my Social Studies world the best way to fully understand if the student knows is to listen to or read their thoughts ... #hacklearning
Not every assessment no. If I implied that forgive me. I’m saying just like Ss are uncomfortable displaying knowledge outside of multiple guess tests (I call them this 2) if we swing too far the other way they will experience the same anxiety when face with MC tests #hacklearning
