Authentic Assessment in Social Studies
Multiple Choice to Multiple Rubrics: One Teacher’s Journey in Assessment
Michael M. Yell
As the author’s teaching progressed, he realized that his assessment practices needed to change too.
Stop Misusing Tests to Evaluate Teachers
Monty Neill
The Executive Director of Fairtest points out the difference between holding teachers responsible and scapegoating them for test scores that are beyond their control.
The Changing Nature and Purpose of Assessment in the Social Studies Classroom
Janet Alleman and Jere Brophy
As educational reform forces a new look at social studies testing, here are some important guidelines for planning assessments.
A Teacher’s Reflections on Teaching and Assessing in a Standards-based Classroom
Jody Smothers Marcello
Imaginative class assignments can make assessment a better experience for both teachers and students.
Opening Assessment to our Students
Diane Hart
Teaching students to assess themselves well may be one of the best things a teacher can do.
Evaluating Students in a Course on Social Advocacy
Barbara L. Wysocki
The right evaluation strategies can ensure that service learning develops students’ intellectual understanding and personal growth.
Observation as an Assessment Tool
Pat Nickell and Angene Wilson
Observing an active classroom is a challenge, but these tips can help.
The Issue of Subjectivity in Authentic Social Studies Assessment
Pat Nickell
Although the risk of subjectivity is inherent in authentic assessment, there are sound ways of reducing it.
Can Statewide Assessments Help Reform the Social Studies Curriculum?
Bruce Brousseau
In a situation where "what gets tested is what gets taught," social studies educators in Michigan faced the challenge of developing high-quality assessments tied to state standards.
Breaking New Ground: The Comprehensive Social Studies Assessment Project
Fred Czarra
This major consortium effort involving 23 states seeks to develop assessments that reflect high-level thinking processes.
The Maryland Experience in Standards-Based Assessment
Marcie Taylor-Thoma
A state website can be an excellent means of disseminating information about tests and honing the assessment skills of teachers.
Research
Authentic Assessment and Instruction
Patricia G. Avery
Authentic assessment only works properly when it is supported by authentic teaching.
Theme-Based Portfolio Assessment in Social Studies Teacher Education
Andrew J. Milson and Sarah M. Brantley
If students develop their own portfolios in teacher education programs, they are more likely to practice portfolio assessment when they become teachers.
Social Studies Assessment: The Role of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
Ronald G. Helms
Here are some answers to questions often asked about the certification of social studies teachers by NBPTS.
A Quest for Knowledge
Mary Teague Mason, Cindy Linzell, Janis Laybourn and Shelley McElwee
Teachers who participate in the Internet-based Quests of Dan Buettner show how the right assessment practices help convert student enthusiasm into an understanding of other cultures.
Looking at the Law
U.S. Supreme Court Trends
Charles F. Williams and Hannah Leiterman
This regular column reviews key decisions of the last Supreme Court term, and previews the next one, with suggestions for stimulating class activities.