Turning Points 2000 Chapter 3

This chapter was all about standards, backward design, and assessment. It was very reminiscent of what we learned in practicum, so it seemed like a bit of a review for me. However, this book has a lot of information about what makes a good, effective standard. There is a large list that begins on page 35 that outlines what makes a good standard. I thought this list was very helpful. I really agreed with some of the suggestions on the list, and found that many of them do not seem to fit the standards we are currently using, such as “brief” and “useful and clear.” I do think that the current standards are moderately easy to use to design and guide lessons with, but could use some reform to meet all of the items on the list.

One concept that the chapter talked about that I liked is “authentic assessments.” These assessments show student learning and understanding better than traditional testing because they are complex, creative, and reflective. I think these assessments, especially the reflective piece, would help wrap up a unit much more than a test—which is more of an abrupt end to the unit. I also think it is better to encourage students to be problem solvers and create projects that require them to use their creativity because it relates better to real life. As adults, students will very rarely have to take a test, but will often have to show their knowledge in other ways and use creative problem solving.