Assessments Based on Learning Progressions
Also known as a learning trajectory, construct map, or construct model, a learning progression is a model of successively more sophisticated ways of thinking about a topic, typically demonstrated by children as they learn, from naïve to expert.
Learning progressions provide a blueprint for instruction and assessment because they represent a goal for summative assessment, indicate a sequence of activities for instruction, and can guide the design of formative assessment processes that provide indicators of students’ understanding.
An important thing to note about learning progressions is that they can also indicate common misconceptions students have about a topic.
A way to increase the effects of learning progressions is to make the the steps visible to students. Making the learning clear, communicating expectations, and charting a path for success are all reasons to try this method.
This video is great for having us think about leveling formative assessments. It is a Ted-Talk that discussed ways games reward the brain.