Effective Assessments Used in Social Studies Methods

Assessments are a major component to Social Studies, as well as many other subjects. They are needed to get an understanding on whether the students understand the lesson or need more review or help on the topic.

Assessments are defined as the process of collecting data. It is the means to determine a student's mastery and understanding of the information, skills, concepts, and procedures. It consists of Measurement, Evaluation, and Feedback. There are 3 types of assessments that are used in teaching lessons: Diagnostic, Formative, Summative.

1. Diagnostic: the Pre-Assessment. It is used to measure what the student's prior-knowledge and understanding of the topic. Examples: KWLs, Journal Entries, Pre-tests.

2. Formative: During the Lesson. This is ongoing and checks for student's understanding while the learning is still happening. Examples: Graphic Organizers, Response Logs, Discussion.

3. Summative: Occurs at the end of the lesson. This sums up the lesson or topic that was learned and it gives a chance to look at the student's performance. Examples: Chapter/Unit Tests, Class Projects, Presentations.

Assessments are:  Authentic, real life, meaningful, and aligned with instruction.

                               Multidimensional with long term feedback.

                               Performance-based as well as product and process driven.

Authentic Assessments are the type of assessments where students need to apply what they are learning to the real world. Students complete projects based on real world issues. Students are usually active and engaged in this type of assessment. Authentic Assessment has multiple measures where students apply their talents, skills, and attitudes.

Authentic Assessment are NOT a punishment, it is a gift. They are only product driven as well as factual-based, single discipline, and memorization driven.

There are many things that can be assessed such as Readiness, Interest, and Learning Profile.

Readiness: includes skills, concepts, and content knowledge

Interest: such as Interest Surveys, Interest Centers, and Self-Selection.

Learning Profile: such as the areas of the students strengths and weaknesses, work preferences, and self-awareness.