Assessments in physical education help gauge students' knowledge skills, and overall understanding. Both formative and summative assessments are used to evaluate students fitness, skills, and knowledge. In the inclusive PE setting, it is important to consider assessments and how to make them accessible to everyone. By using a variety of assessment methods and focusing on personal progress rather than competition, inclusive PE ensures all students can engage meaningfully and successfully in physical education.
Formative Assessment - Ongoing evaluations used to monitor student progress and provide feedback for improvement during a unit.
Teacher observation and feedback during activities
Exit tickets reflecting on daily progress
Peer assessments with constructive feedback
Self-assessments on skill development
Summative Assessment - Occur at the end of a unit or course to measure overall student achievement and mastery of content.
End-of-unit skill performance assessments
Written or verbal quizzes on fitness concepts
Final self-reflections on progress and goal achievement
Culminating projects
Best Practices of Inclusive Assessments
Create a non-threatening environment where students feel comfortable.
Allow students to practice the assessment before official evaluation.
Avoid singling out students; conduct assessments in a supportive setting.
Fitness Assessments
Measure cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, and flexibility.
Use pre-tests, mid-term tests, and post-test to track progress.
Should not be used for grading, but rather for goal-setting and self-improvement.
Skill Assessments
Focus on individuals skills (typically (1-4 per unit).
Assess both accuracy (e.g. accomplishing the goal - making a basket, hitting target) and form (proper technique).
Pre- and post assessments help track student improvement.