ABSTRACT
Assessment is the only real communication that lets students know if they are making progress—if they are learning or just marking time. Although traditional end assessments have a place in the classroom, they should by no means be used exclusively. Kindergartners, as well as seniors in high school, have the ability to create posters. Reflection, that critical component wherein students analyze their own learning, also becomes more complex as the levels increase. If differentiation of assessment seems overwhelming, remember that DAP Tools can simply be used as rubrics. Arter and Chappuis believe that logic should prevail over percentages: “Percentages don't accurately represent level of learning as measured by a rubric”. Effective assessment is ongoing assessment that modifies instruction and helps facilitate continuous progress for the student. Rubrics or scoring guides must hold students to real-world standards so that products are authentic.
