Assessments

Formative assessments monitor student learning and provide continual feedback to students about strengths and areas of growth. Teachers use these assessments to reflect on the effectiveness of their lessons. Students use these assessments to gauge their own personal learning. Examples of formative assessments may include curriculum-based measures (CBM), quizzes, student self-assessment and checks for understanding.

Teachers use interim or benchmark assessments to track students' progress toward mastering skills and knowledge. Teachers can use this information to adjust their teaching to meet each child's needs. Parents can use this information to see the progress their child is making during the year. Benchmark assessments are given periodically (typically three times a year) and are normally given in the classroom as part of instruction. NWEA MAP Growth is an example of a benchmark assessment in PPS.

Summative assessments evaluate student learning, skill acquisition and achievement at the end of a unit or instruction period. These assessments are used by teachers, administrations and schools to gauge students' mastery of a given topic or skill. They are also used by district, state and federal leadership to monitor school accountability and where resources are allocated to support instructions. Examples of summative assessments include end of unit tests and state exams like OSAS and ELPA.

Other types of assessments used in PPS include:

• Diagnostic assessments are given before instruction. Teachers use diagnostics tests to see what students need to work on, what they have already mastered, and what teaching strategies might work best for a students. 
• Screeners help identify specific programs or supports that may be helpful for students, such as Talentedand Gifted (TAG) or English Language (ESL).
• College entrance exams can help students access post-secondary education through admissions support and scholarships.