“One of the limits of relying on paper-and-pencil assessments is that correct answers can hide confusion while incorrect answers can mask understanding. In interviews, I listen and I learn.” @mburnsmath
This quote from Math Education expert Marilyn Burns is a powerful statement about assessments. It is our responsibility to consider information (i.e. data/assessments) in all forms and from all sources, but with any given assessment or data tool there are weaknesses. It is imperative as educators that we know enough about the strengths and weaknesses of each data sources so we can examine critically and know how to uncover what the assessment/data isn't telling us.
I share this because in our RPS Kindergarten-2nd grade classrooms, our teachers have begun to utilize Kathy Richardson's AMC (Assessing Mathematics Concepts) assessment which is an interview assessment. It is administered 1:1 and involves asking students to "do" math, showing and explaining their thinking. It allows teachers to see both their understandings and their gaps and plan effective instruction to support their continued growth.
Want to learn more about AMC and Kathy Richardson? Check out the website here: http://www.assessingmathconcepts.com/index.html
Want to read more by Marilyn Burns? Check out her blog here: http://www.marilynburnsmathblog.com/
