Mathscify Assessment Tasks
Instead of a focus solely on content, we emphasise practices like reasoning, conjecturing, using representations, modelling real-world situations, and developing proofs alongside knowledge of mathematical concepts and procedures. Through formative assessment, we can set instructional goals based on an understanding of students' thinking processes, strategies, and attitudes towards various tasks.
Portfolios: A Wealth of Formative Assessment Information
Think-Aloud Assessments
Utilising portfolios, including e-portfolios, can be immensely valuable in generating information about students' finished products and the processes they employ to arrive at those outcomes. Through interviews, observations, talk documentation, and investigations of their work, teachers can gather comprehensive formative assessment data.
Tasks Uncovering Misconceptions
Think-aloud assessments offer a powerful approach to understanding your students' thinking processes as they work through problems. By gathering information about their cognitive strategies and problem-solving approaches, you can tailor your instruction to meet their individual needs.
Alternative Ways of Revealing Students' Thinking
These tasks play a crucial role in uncovering and resolving misconceptions among students. Structured discussions and debates with peers allow students to challenge their thinking, grow their understanding, and refine their knowledge.
Collaborative problem-solving on posters, critiquing sample solutions, and constructing diagrams also provide valuable insights into students' understanding. "Writing to learn" and concept maps, both individual and collaborative, serve as additional formative assessment tools. Teacher-constructed maps based on individual students' knowledge can also be highly effective for formative assessment.