With assessments moderated and marked, one thing screamed out to the English department I’m a part of: the inference is missing. It wasn’t that student answers weren’t long enough, often they were. It wasn’t that quotes were missing, mostly they were well selected and supportive. It wasn’t that they’d missed the steer. It was […]
Tag: #whatsthepointofassessment
200 Word Challenges: Making The Most Of Every Opportunity
Perhaps 200 word challenges may seem like last week’s fad. Old news in a constantly changing environment. I can’t help but think, though, that good can come of them if they’re done well. During observations, these have been some of the best and worst lessons I’ve seen. At worst, it’s just an excuse for the […]
No More Marking: Fact or Fiction?
‘No More Marking’ has landed. With such an emotive declaration as their company name, I was somewhat dubious initially, ever cynical of a scam, but was swiftly brought round after a demonstration by the trust’s director of English. Genuinely, I was hoping this was the real deal. With an optimistic smile and ready access to […]
Observations: Surviving & Succeeding
I don’t know about you but observations still fill me with dread, causing those cold sweats and stomach clenches. Like most teachers, I really want to do my job well. I really do. But I do not like to be judged. With a classroom full of teenagers, no matter how difficult or stroppy, I know […]
What’s The Point Of Assessment?
At times is can feel like our piles of marking grow and grow like weeds in the Summer. It’s easy to feel powerless against the tide or to even fall into the trap of thinking that it’s pointless. The truth is that assessment is essential. But it’s only effective if it’s done well. What’s the […]