Estimated Module Completion Time: 10 minutes
Before You Begin:
When teachers work collaboratively together in deconstructing standards, they will be able to create Common Formative assessments that are aligned with the standards deconstructed. In creating assessments that are aligned to standards, it will allow teachers to develop and communicate the pathway for students learning progression. Before teachers can make assessments, it is important that standards are unpacked in student friendly language so it is easily understood. Unpacking standards will assist in creating valid assessments that are aligned with concepts, skills and big ideas of the standards.
This page will give you more information on the importance of aligning standards to common formative assessments. You will have 1 task to complete after viewing the video and the PowerSchool recommendations for deconstructing standards to create formative assessments.
Task 1: Watch the video (4:03) below that emphasizes the importance of aligning standards with common assessments. Answer these questions in the Common Formative Assessment section of the HyperDoc.
What are your thoughts about the relationship between standards and common formative assessments?
What part do standards play in developing assessments?
Which steps in the PowerSchool process have you not used in forming your common formative assessments? Why?
PowerSchool steps in using deconstructing standards to create common formative assessments
Deconstruct the standards together
Work collaboratively to unpack standards so teachers can identify the desired learning outcomes.
Focus on learning outcomes
Deconstructing the standards collaboratively, teachers should be able to determine what is expected of students in demonstrating mastery of the content.
Decide on the number of items
In deciding the number of items, teachers will also determine the levels of cognitive complexity that is required to evaluate the connected learning outcomes adequately.
Choose appropriate item types for content
Items chosen should best fit the content the teacher is assessing.
Arrange items from easy to difficult
Arranging items from easy to difficult will have a positive motivational effect on students by causing them to not be overwhelmed with test items.
Make it rigorous for all learners
Test items must assess all levels of students mastery.
Make the duration realistic
Timing of test should be aligned with students allotted subject session.
Provide clear directions
Clear directions will be equitable for all students, especially when examples are provided.
Reflect and revise
Teachers must work collaboratively in reflecting on tests, including what areas should be improved on.
