Informal assessments
Informal assessments are ways of determining the performance and progress of students in an informal way. For students with disabilities, the various informal assessments used include group discussion, brainstorming and tests, and quizzes.
Group Discussion
In the classroom, a teacher instructs students to organize themselves into groups and discuss the topic. Mostly, these are times when the topic is complex, and thus, more interaction with the content is needed. Students do not understand classroom material at the same time, and therefore, those who are fast learners assist the slow learners. Another advantage of groups classroom is that students come up with different methods of understanding the content which they share with their group members. If one method is not working for certain students, they try another one. Students who are shy feel free to ask a question from a fellow student than from a teacher or an instructor.
Brainstorming
A teacher asks questions to students randomly and gets their answers. In short, the topic is covered engagingly between the students and the teacher, and thus, there is liveliness. Students who never answer or ask questions get a chance to talk since the teacher chooses any student to answer a question. Depending on the answer given on a specific question, more explanation is provided by the instructor. For instance, where a student gives a shallow answer, the teacher provides details of the same and gives examples to enhance understanding. As the Brainstorming session progresses, the teacher notes the strengths and weaknesses of the students in those courses, and thus, they know where to focus on for improvement. For instance, they will allocate more time and develop strategies to ensure that the students understand certain areas better. Some teachers start programs where students can be accessing them for consultation during some time of the day.
Tests and quizzes
After a class, some teachers give tests or quizzes, and thus, they assess whether the students have comprehended the topic. In some instances, the test is given immediately; the teacher finishes the topic. It acts as a good way of identifying the students who were keen during the lesson. Serious students and those who understand the content perform well while those who were not concentrating do poorly. Additionally, some perform poorly due to their brain ability and their level of disability. They are understood and assisted in making sure they are on par as well. Teachers have to keep giving those quizzes now and then so that they can change their teaching strategies if need be. Besides, they encourage students to give feedback regarding the changes in teaching strategies that they would like to understand better. A rapport is established between the students and teaches, and that creates a stable environment for learning. Stud nets can consult teachers with ease at any time. As a result, the set learning objectives are achieved.
How Assessment Results Inform Instructional Planning
After the assessment, the results achieved enable teachers to discuss and come up with instructional plans. For instance, if the students’ performance is poor, they have to see how they can change their teaching methods or adjust them. Besides, they have to determine how they will improve their interaction with students. After all the strategies that are agreed upon are passed, they are implemented.
A resource that Provides more Information on the Three Assessments
A resource called, explained that the three methods of informal assessments are very effective. They play a significant role in helping teachers evaluate and enhance classroom performance. Through informal assessments, the specific needs of students are met, and thus, they can go on with their studies. Also, students who have other issues that make them do poorly are assisted. For example, they are taken to a psychologist who helps them to explore and resolve ambivalence. Some students have issues with family, while others have physical appearance issues that make them have low self-esteem. If they go to the school counselor, they get assisted accordingly, and they start viewing themselves and life from a different perspective. Teachers do well in their teaching, but students also perform well, which makes them realize their dreams.