UbD/DI Chapter 5

            This chapter discusses the principles of effective assessment. It is important to consider differentiation in the application of assessments and to understand that assessments need to be varied in order to see a clear picture of a student’s understanding. This principle is explained with a comparison to photo albums and snapshots. The text explains that a snapshot shows one example of a situation but when many snapshots are compiled into a photo album, it is easier to see an accurate representation of the situation. When accountability systems rely on one snapshot of student knowledge—usually standardized tests—there is not a realistic representation of student learning and school success.

            This chapter also explains the importance of backwards planning by matching the assessments with the goals of a unit. It is also important to see what kind of knowledge you are testing and match that knowledge with an appropriate type of assessment. The test explains that there are three types of educational goals: declarative knowledge, procedural knowledge, and dispositions. These categories must be considered when teaching and assessing students. By doing this, it will help students reach a level of understanding than simply knowing basic facts and information.

            For me, I found the comparison the text provides with the snapshots and photo albums to be very helpful. I think that this comparison very clearly demonstrates why it is important to use many testing methods and not just rely on traditional forms of assessment. Although I have always wanted to make sure I am accurately assessing my students, this chapter makes me see how crucial it is to do so if I really want to see my students’ understanding.