"how-to" book

Students create an instruction book to show evidence of learning a skill or process.

Type of assessment

Summative assessment measures a student’s achievement at the end of a unit or course.  It provides evidence of what students learned, whether curriculum outcomes have been met and the degree to which they were attained. 

How to Use

1. Discuss the criteria that needs to be included in their “how-to” book before students begin writing.

2. Stress to students that you want them to show you what they have learned about the topic so details are important.

3. Be clear about what process they are describing, for example how to solve a twostep

problem in mathematics .

4. Encourage them to show their completed book to others, for example family members.

When to Use

This tool is particularly valuable in evidencing development of skills (as opposed to knowledge). It is an experiential activity, which leaves the student more freedom for personal reflection, and take students out of the normal routine of school work & assessment.

References and additional information

Technique instructions adapted from Regier (2012).  Also, an example marking rubric is available at http://www.rcampus.com/rubricshowc.cfm?sp=true&code=Q48AB2.

Regier, Natalie (2012) Book Three: Summative Assessment – 50 Ways to Gather Evidence of Student Learning. Regier Educational Resources.  Available from https://gssdelementarymath.wikispaces.com/file/view/Book+Three.pdf.

Type
Summative assessment
Format
Written
Images
Timing
Outside class
During lesson
Focus
Group
Individuals