Use Alternative and Authentic Assessments

• Assess through observations, work samples, portfolios, and task performance.

• Focus on what students can do, rather than what they cannot.

• Examples: Completing a visual sequence, matching real objects, and role-playing routines.

2. Implement Ongoing Informal Assessment

• Collect daily data through checklists, anecdotal notes, and video recordings.

• Observe during routine activities (e.g., circle time, snack, transitions).

• Use task analysis to assess steps in a skill (e.g., brushing teeth).

3. Use Prompt Fading and Levels of Independence

• Measure how much prompting (verbal, visual, physical) a student needs to complete a task.

• Track progress toward independent functioning over time.

4. Incorporate Communication and Behavior into Assessment

• Assess both academic and functional skills, including:

  • Expressive/receptive communication

  • Social skills

  • Behavior/self-regulation

  • Sensory needs

5. Use Rubrics and Rating Scales Adapted for Students with Disabilities

• Create or adapt rubrics to reflect progress toward IEP goals and skill mastery.

• Use rating scales (e.g., 1–5 levels of mastery or independence).

6. Progress Monitoring Aligned to IEP Goals

• Collect weekly/monthly data to assess whether students are progressing toward individual goals.

• Graph results to visualize growth over time.

7. Leverage Technology for Assessment

• Use apps and software for digital data collection, behavior tracking, and visual progress charts.

• Example tools: SeeSaw, Google Forms, ABC Data app, Catalyst (by Therapy Brands)

8. Use Dynamic Assessment

• Measure how students learn during the assessment process, not just the final product.

Scaffold support, and adjust based on the student’s responsiveness to cues or feedback.
*Goal Tracking (Goalbook)

*Workshop Resources

*Spring Workshop 2024  

*ESGI

CSTP Workshops