Informal Assessment Strategies

Informal Assessment Strategies explores the power of informed assessment practices on teachers, on instruction, and, most of all, on the literacy success of students. Beth Charlton shows teachers how to use the results of assessment and how to find time to assess in an increasingly crowded school day. She challenges teachers to reflect on their own practice, encourages them to explore the why, what, and how of assessment, and presents techniques to help busy teachers listen, question, and observe students, and focus on student strengths and abilities. These observations form the foundation for lessons that build on what students know.

Informal Assessment Strategies addresses the three fundamental components of successful teaching and learning:

• asking questions that engage students as they investigate, theorize, communicate, share, and reflect on their learning;
• observing students as they interact with others, participate in lessons, and complete assignments; and
• planning well thought-out lessons that reflect an awareness of the curriculum, what a student can do, what the student needs to know next, and how the student and teacher measure success.

With student and teacher reflections sprinkled throughout, this highly readable book is rooted in the life of the classroom. It shows teachers how to foster true engagement and nurture students who are involved in, aware of, and excited about their learning.