Assessment

How does your co-operative teacher use assessment?
What are your experiences this semester with assessment in the field?

My cooperating teacher uses several forms of assessment for the children in her class. We observe her reading class every Wednesday and she gives them a weekly reading test on Wednesdays to assess their comprehension of the book they have been reading that week. The tests are mainly multiple choice and have questions relating to comprehension as well as vocabulary. There are two short answer questions on every test as well. She told me that she does not expect the students to pass the test, which I thought was kind of strange, but I guess once they have learned the test format and begin to pass all of the tests, that is how she can tell if they are ready to move up to the next reading level class. She uses assessment for her math students through observation. She has the lowest level of RBI math. She has them use manipulatives during the class time and she walks around the room to observe them and assess their understanding. She is always so encouraging and makes a point to recognize the students who are doing exceptionally well that day.