Monday, August 19, 2013

Assessment Plan: Synonyms and Antonyms Paper


Taneshia Easton

Assessment Plan: Synonyms and Antonyms

EDU645: Learning & Assessment for the 21st Century

Instructor:  Dr. Darrell Rice

August 19, 2013

 
 

Assessment Plan: Synonyms and Antonyms

            The assessment plan of synonyms and antonyms was constructed for fourth-graders to learn, understand, and apply their knowledge through assessment.         To promote learning through assessment and assessment plans was done with the objective in mind for the students to be able to differentiate between a synonym and an antonym; with the outcome of being able to demonstrate their understanding of the difference between a synonym and an antonym; by expressing this in their own words, and/or giving examples of the concepts used. It is important in the development of a child's learning that they are able to compare and contrast in real life situations. For example, knowing the difference between good and bad, right and wrong, up or down, or knowing that one half is equivalent to two fourths. This type of approach also promotes critical thinking; such as asking yourself," If I do…what will happen?" or," How many half cups do I need to make two fourths?" 

Assessment Context

Because synonyms and antonyms are used to compare, differentiate, and define words, I wanted the assessment contexts to do just that. The assessment contexts used were constructed simple enough for a “regular” student, as well as a special needs student to be able to understand and follow the directions given. I also wanted the students to have fun as they learn. I think it is important for the children to have fun as they learn to keep them engaged in whatever the task may be. Individuals, especially children, need stimulation in order to do certain tasks or activities.  One way that the assessment context of the worksheet keeps the students engaged is by having them cut and paste the synonym or antonym that corresponds with the words on the worksheet. The other assessment context keeps the student interested by allowing them to write about an active part of their life.

Holistic Rubric

The holistic rubric used to assess the assessment context using a worksheet on synonyms and antonyms inspired by the Super Teacher Worksheets (2013), was evaluated using the levels of remember (knowledge), understand (comprehension), and apply (application). The first level used, remember, displays verbs and questions that point to what the student previously learned with the use of facts, terms, and basic concepts. This level clearly demonstrates what is anticipated in the student’s objective and outcome. The second level, understand, is used to evaluate the students understanding of facts; they should also be able to express these facts in their own words and give examples of what they have learned. This level shows what is to be evaluated during assessment of the objective and outcome. The third level, apply, is used to determine if the student is able to apply their knowledge and understanding through problem-solving and completing tasks. This level also clearly shows the proper assessment needed to determine if the objective and outcome have been met by the student. 

A holistic approach to learning fits with the holistic rubric used for assessment. The student is graded according to their knowledge, comprehension, and application of the task given. Teachers contribute to a child’s learning and goal setting throughout their education.  I believe a mixture of holistic learning and a constructivist approach to learning will allow students to become critical thinkers and be able to accept and meet any challenges and bounce back from any mistake they may make in life and in their careers without having any regrets (teachnology, 2012). 

Testing Constraints

            The testing constraints used were designed to ensure that every student is able to get their test done without being disturbed or disturbing their peers.  It is mandatory that children understand the importance of instruction and order; it also helps with their development by teaching them self-control and encouraging self-efficacy.  In addition, the constraints let the students know how much time they have to take their test and allows those who have learning disabilities to know that they are given extra time and are able to ask question if needed.  Students should be allowed to know what they can and cannot do during testing and afterwards in order to keep down confusion later.  I have heard from my own daughter on different occasions that when she has finished with a test or reading a particular text that her teacher assigned she would listen to music with her headphones or talk to one of her peers that was also done; in which they got in trouble for.  More than likely, if the teacher would have given specific instructions before the test or the reading, the students would have known what they could or could not do after completing their work.  The testing constraints also included the encouragement of the students checking their test for errors.  Children often rush through their work; either because they did not want to take the test in the first place, it is too easy, or they just want to hurry to get it done in order to do something else more interesting.  Overall, the testing constraints were selected to ensure a smooth start and ending to the assessment process. 

           

 

 
                                                                      Reference
 
Blogger (2013). Assessment Plan: Synonyms and Antonyms. Retrieved from


Teachnology. (2012). What is Holistic Education? Retrieved from

 http://www.teach-nology.com/teachers/methods/holistic/

 

Worksheets, S. T. (2013). Synonyms and Antonyms Worksheets. Retrieved from

http://superteacherworksheets.com/synonyms-antonyms.html

 

 

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