FIAE Chapter 6

            This chapter focuses specifically on test questions and test formatting. It explains that it is important to be extremely careful in how tests are set up, how questions are phrased, and the type of questions that are important. I really enjoyed what this chapter had to say about testing because it focuses so much on ensuring student success by making questions clear, including a variety of types of questions, and setting the test up in a way that does not tire out the student. I have had so many teachers that have tests that seem like they are designed to make the student fail. This chapter emphasizes how important it is to design tests in a way that is clear and meaningful for the student. I wish I had more teachers in high school and even here in college who design tests in a way that actually benefit the student.

            This chapter also discusses how to design tests in a way that benefits the teacher, as well. There are several methods that can be used to make grading tests faster and easier. However, when using the methods in the chapter, it will take longer to design tests. The chapter encourages teachers to be very specific in how questions are phrased, chosen, and placed on tests. Creating an effective test takes time and work, but in the end will reflect learning much better than tests that are thrown together with unclear questions and a lack of variety. Teachers who care about getting an accurate picture of their students’ understanding will be willing to put the time and effort into creating good assessments.