Assessment is a word that often sends shivers down students’ backs. This word often triggers test anxiety as they associate it with an extensive test, exam, or essay. As someone who can relate, I tried my best to break students’ association with the word. I was fortunate enough to have a coaching teacher who shared that mindset. Tests were not called tests; they were called SMWYK, also known as a “show me what you know.” Re-labeled and rephrasing this form of Assessment drastically shifted the student’s perceptions. The students learned that the SMWYK was a tool used as a benchmark. This would also decide if we were ready to move to the next lesson or if additional time was needed to master the concept.
Assessment is a vital part of education. However, it does not always have to be done formally. Assessment through the means of feedback is just as crucial as a score circled on a piece of paper. Direct feedback, whether through peers or the teacher, proved the most beneficial as it is often the most immediate, and there is less confusion. Assessment is additionally a great way to show evidence of learning. We will be questioned about our grading in our careers, and having sufficient assessment evidence will help validate our decisions.