Assessment = Tests, WRONG!

Tests are just a part of assessment, but they are not the be all, end all. 
Definition-  The process of gathering and discussing information on student progress.

There are many components linked to assessment:

1.) Evaluation - interpretation of the collected data. By giving students a grade, you are evaluating them.

2) Measurement - a system of measures used to assess students progress. 

3) Feedback - If a student can receive accurate feedback it can truly help a student improve themselves and their abilities in the classroom. 

There are also 3 different types of assessment:

1.) Diagnostic (Finding out)= Pre-Assessment tool which assesses a student's prior knowledge on a topic.
Examples- KWL, checklists, self-evaluation, etc. 

2.) Formative (Keeping track & Checking-up)= Ongoing informal feedback on a student's performance that helps students improve.
Examples- Exit tickets, graphic organizers, observation, etc. 

3.) Summative (Making Sure)= Post-Assessment tests that attempt to "summarize" what a student has learned. 
Examples- Unit test, project presentation, demonstration, etc. 

There is also:

Authentic Assessment- Authentic="real". Students must realize the meaning of what they are doing and they can use this experience in their real lives. 

What is it like?
 * Learning by doing
 * Student participation
 * Student applys abilities
 * A gift
 * Multi-dimensional

What is it not like?
* Punishment
* Mono-dimensional

What can be assessed?

Readiness- Skill and content knowledge 
* If students are not ready they will not absorb knowledge and information. 

Interest- Interest surveys, interest centers, and self-selection. 
* Great way to keep students interested and more linked into their personalities. 

Learning Profile- Areas of strengths and weaknesses, work preferences, and self awareness.
* Useful when trying to engage students in the classroom.