Vocabulary
Define Documentation
The process of collecting samples of children’s work systematically over time to show tangible evidence of progress.
During your observation time, you should avoid talking to the children, other observers, or the staff.
Explain why this statement is true or why not?
True
Teachers are responsible for holding every student's data in confidence and sharing it only with necessary parties such as parents, other teachers, and administrators.
List three types of assessments:
Anecdotal records
Checklists
Participation chart
Rating scales
Collecting samples of children’s products
What is the difference between an objective and a subjective statement?
objective:not influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering and representing facts.
subjective: based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions.
Define Assessment
The process of observing, recording, and documenting children’s growth and behavior.
Assessment and evaluations are the exact same processes.
Explain why this statement is correct or why not?
False
What is the difference between a formal and informal assessment?
Formal observation uses standardized tests and research instruments to identify developmental milestones or emerging competencies
Informal involves observing children in the classroom, collecting samples of their work, interviewing parents, and talking with children
As a teacher beginning a new year, you conduct a _____ assessment for each student.
Initial or Baseline Assessment
Is this statement subjective or objective:
Child A sat on the big white chair looking at a board book. She pointed to a picture of a train, and chirped, “Choo choo!”
Define Evaluation
The process of reviewing the information and finding value in it.
Preschool teachers usually use informal observation methods.
Explain why this statement is correct or why not?
True
When preparing student portfolios, items in the portfolio should be stored in ______ order.
chronological
Checklists are designed to record __________ .
Checklists are designed to record presence or absence of specific traits or behaviors.
Child A sat on a chair in the writing center. She picked up a yellow marker correctly. Then, she began to draw on the page. Her drawing was very unique and advance for a child her age.
Subjective
Define Anecdotal Records
The simplest form of direct observation; a brief narrative account of a specific incident.
A single assessment will provide an exact assessment of a child's ability or performance.
Explain why this statement is correct or why not?
False
What are three factors to consider when selecting an assessment?
Decide the type of behavior to be assessed and the amount of detail needed
Whether assessing one child or an entire group
The amount of focused attention required by the observer
Rating scales are designed to record _________
Rating scales are designed to record degree to which a quality or trait is present
Is this statement subjective or objective:
Chloe sat down to paint the mask she had just made with Ben. Chloe chose pink colors. After completing the task, she showed it to Ben, smiled, and said, “Look, Ben! I completed mine! I think you should paint yours blue."
Objective
Define Developmental Milestones
Characteristics and behaviors considered normal for children in specific age groups; also referred to as emerging competencies.
Assessment information is confidential and should not be shared with parents.
Explain why this statement is correct or why not?
False
should include all developmental areas—physical, social, emotional, linguistic, cognitive, and artistic.
Plan a developmentally appropriate curriculum.
Keep the teachers and the curriculum responsive to the children’s needs
Individual and classroom problems identified
Useful in parent conferences
chart a child’s development over time
screen children for disabilities
assist in planning a curriculum
assess kindergarten readiness
evaluate the effectiveness of a program
provide feedback to parents
identify program strengths and weaknesses
children who might have special needs and monitor their progress.
A final purpose for assessment is to evaluate your program.
- observations must be done over time in play-based situations
- this type of assessment is best because it is the most accurate
To be objective, a statement must pass two tests
2. Recorded information must not be evaluative