Considering Evidence of Learning in Diverse Classrooms

Tomlinson, C. & McTighe, J. (2006), Chapter 5"Considering Evidence of Learning in Diverse Classrooms, Integrating Differentiated Instruction + Understanding by Design, ACSD, Virginia

Summary: This chapter continues the discussion of what is best for students specifically focusing on the issue of assessment. The chapter begins discussin the three principle of effective assessment. The first principle is "consider photo albums vs. snapshots. Tomlinson agrues that the best way to measure progress, skills, understanding and ability is over a period of time with a variety of resources from projects to portfolios, observations as well as student self-assessments.. She also argues that the way states and schools are measured is a "snapshot" of measurement which is ineffective because it only focuses on that moment and not the deepr level critical thinking.

The second principle is to match the measurement with the goal. She discusses 3 types of educational goals; declarative(wht students should know, procedural (what students can do)and dispositions(attitudes students should display. She states it is necessary to focus on all three types of knowledge in order to best understand how to best meet a students needs. It is also stated that in order for a student to truly display understanding, they must demonstrate the "Six Facets of Understanding"(62)

The Third principle is "Form Follows Function". She discusses that the assessments must be clear and purposeful in both its goal and for how the results will be used. In order to best serve the needs of diverse students, we should offer pre-assessments and open ended choices for toher assessments that students can use to demonstrate knowledge and understanding. A final aspect she discusses if the need for students to assess themselves, reflect and set future goals for themselves.

Tomlinson uses a variety of studies and research from well respected people in the educational world to support her ideas. Each propsed idea is strongly supported and allows one to link to other articles for specific research topic. This chapter is much better supported and connected me to possible articles to use to support my own research in the areas of student disposition and self-assessment and reflection.