Chapter 4~ "Fair Isn't Always Equal"

Summary:

In this chapter three important types of assessments were discussed. These were portfolios, rubrics, and student self assessments. Portfolios allow students to reflect upon their work over the course of the semester, and they can also be used as a tool for open communication between the teacher and the student. Rubrics are a great way to examine all components of a students work, they can give the students a look at what goes into the grade they receive, and allow students to see which areas they are excelling at as well as which they need to improve upon. Finally, student self assessments put the evaluation in the hands of the student, helping them to learn along the way.


Reflection:

When referring to the student portfolios/journals Meghan thought that they “will instantly make the student place some amount of trust in me, which I know is huge for teenagers.” Heather liked the notion that “students will not only be able to see where they came from and where they ended up, but they will have a very valuable compilation of their work…a wonderful artifact to keep in the end.” Luke made the valid point that with student self assessment teachers “don’t have to worry about cheating.” Mike can see himself “using these three assessments often” as a teacher, and believes that rubrics are a great way to “communicate my expectations on assignments.”