I have been working hard to try to incorporate more formative assessment in my classroom and wanted to share some of the strategies that have worked for me.
First is the thumbs assessment. After teaching a concept and before students begin to work independently, I will ask them to give me a
Thumbs Up (I get it!),
Thumbs Down (I'm totally lost),
or a Thumbs to the Side (I think I get it, but I may need help).
(Clip art from Krista Walden/Creative Clips)
A quick glance around the room at the thumbs and I know which students I need to check in with to possibly reteach.
Similar to the Thumbs assessment is the 0 to 3 quick check:
Another quick formative assessment I use that gives me a little more insight into my students' thinking is the Learning Journal. At the end of the day, I will give a writing prompt based on what we learned today:
- Model 3,274
- Write one thick and one thin question about what we read in science
- List two adjectives to describe our main character and explain your thinking
- Show two different ways to add 32,448 and 51,486
A quick walk around the room at the end of the day shows me what students have learned and again, who needs another review.
If you are looking for some formative assessment ideas, I encourage you to check out this website and view the Google Slideshow.
What are your favorite formative assessments that you use to check for understanding? Please share!
