Current Assessment Practices

Currently I utilize numerous different assessments at various levels within classroom and district.

Type of Standard Testing
I currently teach in Garland ISD. Our district is very meticulous about testing throughout the school year in order to customize instruction and meet the specific needs of each student. We currently administer a curriculum assessment after instruction of each unit. This is typically every six weeks in reading and around every three to four weeks in math and science. Each of these tests are directly related to the TEKS with detailed grading sheets and analysis online for teachers to reflect upon. Also, in teaching third grade, our students take the reading and math TAKS test every year.

Benchmark Practices
I administer four benchmark tests each school year. About mid-year my third graders take a reading and math benchmark to determine their strengths and weaknesses within the content areas. As a teacher, I use these scores to guide my tutorials and grouping for the remainder of the school year. The students also take two benchmarks at the end of the school year. Students take a released writing TAKS test from 4th grade in order to give a predictive measure of success the following year and a comprehensive science benchmark.

Use of Portfolios
Currently the use of portfolios in my campus is very limited. Within the classroom students document writing, math, and science within journals that are continuous throughout the year. However, they do not continue into the following grade level. The only true continuous portfolio that carries with a student throughout their elementary life is with their writing. We pass on student folders from one grade level to the next with examples of student writing. It is very beneficial to see the growth in a student over the course of a year or even the course of several years.

Use of Project-Based Learning
Each grade level within my school maintains its own project based learning within their curriculum. From research projects to living dictionary exhibits, the teachers at my campus try to utilize as many project-based learning opportunities as possible.

Technology Tools for Assessment
We currently utilize numerous technologies that assist in assessment. We currently have one set of student response clickers that are utilized whole group. Students also participate in the Accelerated Reader program school-wide. This monitors their reading and provides useful feedback for the teacher. IStation is a new program that we implemented school wide last year and found it very valuable in giving information about students reading capabilities, especially with the younger grade levels.

Technology Standards Assessed
I believe that this is the area that my campus needs to strengthen the most. We currently do not have any routines, procedures, or policies in place about assessing the technology standards with the students at our campus. Next year I am assisting my principal in a staff development of a technology boot camp. Hopefully we will be able to teach others about the importance of the technology standards so that it can be routinely assessed.