7. Validity Accuracy of inferences Making appropriate assumptions about test scores Use language of classroom instruction Use alternative forms of assessment that reflect classroom instruction

8. Video New Kid in Town Arlington Intake Center, Arlington VA

12. Assessing Reading Must reflect classroom instruction Use interactive tasks to provide context for learning Standardized tests do not always provide context or language support

13. Linking Classroom Assessments to Statewide Tests Base classroom assessments on state standards Use classroom learning tasks as opportunities for assessment

14. Benefits of Classroom-Based Assessments Guide both teaching & learning Continuous adjustments by teacher & students Provide specific, personalized, timely information

18. Assessment Does not need to take time away from instruction Can be simultaneous to instruction Must be ongoing & continuous Can provide feedback to guide teaching and improve learning An integral part of instruction

19. Teacher Assessments Inform & Direct Instruction Needs/Diagnostic Assessment Reading Instruction Redirected Reading Instruction Cycle of Assessment & Instruction

21. State Standardized Tests Measure annual growth Not as useful for informing classroom instruction on weekly basis

22. Video Letters and Sounds Mark Hopkins Elementary School, Sacramento CA

23. Video highlights Student engaged to follow specific instruction Student performs literacy task Teacher keeps record of strengths and needs

24. Useful Teaching Approaches Relate new information to students’ prior knowledge Use hands-on tasks, manipulatives, games, kinesthetic activities, visuals Help learners feel they belong

25. Assessing and Diagnosing In a Multi-lingual Classroom Common set of teaching standards and objectives Compare each students accomplishments to standards instead of to each other

29. Informing Both Parents & Students Share learning goals, objectives, and assessment results Enable students to hit the learning target

30. Teacher Observations Observe whole class or small groups Save one-on-one assessment for individuals not making progress Group & individual tasks Provide time for individual conferences

31. Involving Parents Native language resources Provide child’s history Need to know learning goals & assessment expectations Can support literacy in the home

32. Summary Need variety of assessments Need to involve parents Need state legislation requiring teacher assessment literacy L. V. Pierce, George Mason University

33. Thank you for watching!