Standardized Tests

• Operate on the belief that everyone’s knowledge can be measured in the same way
• Seem fair in theory but often disadvantage students with fewer resources
• The “objective” results reflect only part of student learning

Formative Assessments

• Focus on providing regular feedback to guide student growth
• Work well when feedback is clear and consistent, helping students make steady progress
• Vague or inconsistent feedback can leave students uncertain about how to improve

Performance-Based Assessments

•  Built on the idea that students show true understanding through real-world tasks
• Can make learning more meaningful and motivating
• Lack of clear criteria can introduce subjectivity and personal bias in grading

Portfolios

• Based on the belief that a body of work over time gives a fuller picture of student abilities
• Encourage students to take ownership of their learning
• Can be overwhelming for students without proper guidance or structure

Peer Assessment

• Assumes students can fairly evaluate each other’s work and benefit from the process
• Can foster community and shared responsibility when done well
• Risks bias and unfairness if students don’t know how to give constructive feedback

Impact of Assumptions

• These underlying beliefs directly influence how assessments function in the classroom
• When teachers recognize and address these assumptions, assessments become more effective and equitable for all students