Chapter 3: Curriculum and Assessment to Improve Teaching and Learning

Abstract

Teaching is made up of three basic parts: curriculum, assessment, and instruction. Backward design is what weaves those pieces together. Within backward design, there are two more elements discussed in this chapter: using standards as the basis for curriculum and developing assessments that embody the standards. By using standards as the basis for curriculum, teachers are meeting the needs of students as determined by the state. The author also discusses the importance of creating assessments based on the standards. Along with that, it is important to vary assessments and allow students to make choices when appropriate. The chapter has a lot of great examples of assessment: informal checks for understanding (class discussions and observations); traditional quizzes and tests (weekly quizzes); interviews, questionnaires, and conferences (talking with students); and performance tasks and projects (authentic and a great alternative to tests and quizzes).

Reflection

This chapter was basically a review of what I learned in Practicum. We are taught to create the lessons with the end goal in mind or else the lessons may come out completely unrelated. I think it is important to follow the standards but I also like the point in the chapter about comparing and selecting standards. It would be impossible to teach everything the students need to know in one year. Some standards have to be dropped and it is up to the teacher to determine which ones. Also, I really like the idea of students keeping portfolios of some of the best work they’ve done throughout the year. The students choose the work that they want to put in it and include a cover letter reflecting on their improvement over time.