Testing for understanding
Albert Einstein is quoted as saying, "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results." Well, that often sounds what we do. We teach, test, get frustrated and then repeat. Instead of going round and round on this wheel, perhaps it is time to try something else.
For difficult concepts, I want to check their understanding before I test them to ensure they have grasped the concepts and they best way to do that is through assessment. Here are a couple of easy ways to assess your students understanding.
Idea 1
Give
each student a large token - one side is green, one side is red. I usually just
glue two pieces of colored construction paper together. If my students are
doing fine, they leave their cards on the green side. If they get stuck, or
just need a little assistance, they simply switch to red or quietly flash the
red to me. It's a great way for me to monitor who needs help
Idea 2
Use exit cards. I have a little mailbox that students deposit these it to. Click here for an example.
Both these work well as long as you don't over use them -- give them a try.
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