Choosing Assessments

For specific examples go to Assessment Examples
In order to select the most appropriate assessment teachers must:

understand their mathematical goals deeply,
understand how their students may be thinking about mathematics,
have a good grasp of possible means of assessing students' knowledge, and
Be skilled in interpreting assessment information from multiple sources.

A teacher's knowledge about mathematics and assessment is the foundation in collecting useful information and drawing valid inferences. Assessment linked to instruction must become a major focus in teacher preparation and professional development.

Assessment methods and instruments should be selected on the basis of the

type of information sought;
use to which the information will be put; and the
Developmental level and maturity of the student.

Type of Information	Type of Assessment (For specific examples go to Assessment Examples)
Indicates if students can apply procedures.	Quizzes using simple constructed-response Selected-response items (multiple choice)
Indicates students' capacity to apply mathematics in complex or new situations	Constructed-response Performance tasks
Provides insights into students' thinking	Observations Conversations in the classroom
Monitors changes in students' thinking and reasoning over time.	Reflective journals Portfolios

The following assessment strategies are recommended by Alaska Content Standards

Alaska Math Standard A: A student should understand mathematical facts, concepts, principles and theories.	Graphic Organizers Interviews Observations Performance Tasks Journals and Learning Logs Contracts Familiar Assessment Tools: Tests Scoring Guides
Alaska Math Standard B: A student should understand, select and use a variety of problem-solving strategies.	Graphic Organizers Interviews Observations Performance Tasks Self- and Peer-Evaluations Journals and Learning Logs Scoring Guides
Alaska Math Standard C: A student should understand, form and use appropriate methods to define and explain mathematical relationships.	Graphic Organizers Interviews Performance Tasks Creative Performances and Exhibitions Journals and Learning Logs Scoring Guides Portfolios Reporting: Student Conferences
Alaska Math Standard D: A student should use logic and reason to solve mathematical problems.	Graphic Organizers Interviews Observations Performance Tasks Creative Performances Journals and Learning Logs Scoring Guides
Alaska Math Standard E: A student should apply mathematical concepts and processes to situations within and outside of school.	Graphic Organizers Observations Performance Tasks Creative Performances Journals and Learning Logs Contracts Familiar Assessment Tools: Tests Scoring Guides Portfolios

For specific examples go to Assessment Examples.