Informal assessment is an important classroom tool
as it can make the difference between a student continuing to fall behind
his/her peers and the student performing at a grade-appropriate level. Students cannot be formally assessed
constantly, especially at the elementary level. Ongoing informal assessments
can bridge the gaps between formal assessments, so that teachers can catch any
learning issues early and begin addressing them.
Informal
assessments such as running records allow teachers to assess the progress of
students reading. When students improve between informal assessments, it can be
assumed that they are reacting positively to the instruction methods of the teacher.
However, if the student is showing no improvement between informal assessments,
it is clear that a different type of instruction is required for that
particular student. Running records can also show if the difficulties that a
student is having is typical for the grade level or if the issue is deeper and
requires special attention.
Struggling
students who are not informally assessed run the risk of falling further and
further behind their peers before anyone steps in to help. With the use of
informal assessments, teachers can nip learning problems in the bud before they
worsen. A simple formal assessment can save a student from being one step behind
their entire school career.
I agree with what you are saying about using assessment to "nip learning problems in the bud". I use exit slips almost daily to assess individual students and so that I can address any misconception before we move on to the next topic. Assessing students constantly can be overwhelming for the students but it really is an efficient way of gauging student understanding.
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