Assessment and Learning: Using Assessment as a Learning Tool

    113.Which of the following are characteristics of effective assessments?

1.The assessments provide students with positive reinforcement for their efforts.

2.The assessments are aligned with teachers’ learning objectives.

3.The assessments increase student learning.

4.The assessments allow students to compare their performance to their classmates.

a.  1, 2, 3, 4 b. 2, 3, 4        c. 1, 2, 4         d. 2, 3

    114.Of the following, which is the most essential characteristic of effective assessments?

a.Assessments must use an objective format, such as multiple-choice.

b.Assessments must be given immediately after learning activities are conducted.

c.Assessments must allow a majority of students to respond to the items correctly.

d.Assessments must provide information about students’ thinking.

    115.Of the following, the most important purpose of assessments is to:

a.provide teachers with information that they can use to assign grades.

b.provide parents with information about their child’s learning progress.

c.provide students with information they can use to increase their learning.

d.provide students with information about how their performance compares to their classmates.

    116.Which of the following is not an essential characteristic of effective assessments?

a.The assessment is aligned with the teacher’s learning objectives.

b.The assessment is a form of positive reinforcement for students.

c.The assessment provides information about students’ thinking.

d.The assessment promotes learning in students.

Essay Item

    117.Describe two essential characteristics of effective assessments, and explain why each is important.