Abstract and Synthesis of Fair Isn't Always Equal Chapter 4

Abstract

Assessment is an important aspect of teaching and not only needs to be done, but is helpful for ensuring student success. There are many tools that can be used by a teacher to assess a students’ progress and to guide them in the right direction when misconceptions arise. Teachers need to be aware of the tools they can use and how and when to use them.

Synthesis

The fourth chapter of Fair Isn’t Always Equal is all about different forms of assessment. It focuses on three assessment tools and the advantages to each. A portfolio is the first assessment tool that is address and it allows teachers to see the progress of a student over time. Artifacts are collected throughout a unit, a year, or a students’ career to display works that have been accomplished and provide examples of growth. Students can reflect upon their work throughout the unit and improve in future assignments. Teachers can also use portfolios to compare among students and determine if they are at an appropriate level throughout the unit. Another assessment tool that is addressed in this chapter is the use of rubrics. Rubrics are tools used by teachers to guide the assessment of student work, and to ensure the student is aware of what is required of them. Students are able to use a rubric to focus and guide their work and know what quality of work will get what grade. Teachers can use the tool to determine how well the students follow the directions, as well as to fairly evaluate the work. The last tool that was presented in this chapter was the use of self-assessment. Self-assessment is used by a student to evaluate himself or herself, and to reflect on what they are learning. Students can also think about their own progress. It is important that students are comfortable analyzing their successes and their failures in order to improve upon their work. All of these tools are useful and should be used in various ways to help students succeed.