Reflection 8- ASSESSMENT

26 October 2010 TEACHING & LEARNING (Fourth Tutorial)

Brilliant Lessons for the Night by Dr Yeap
1) Assessment-Interactive Lecture
2) Area is 5
3) Frameworks - workbook task & word problems

What I have learnt about Assessment :

When we think of assessments in mathematics, we usually think of the traditional mode of pen-and-paper test but assessment is more than that.

The purpose of assessment is broadly divided into two types: summative and formative. They are also known as assessment of learning and assessment for learning. Both types of assessments are central to improving learning. Assessment for learning is formative in the sense that follow-up measures are taken to remedy the learning. Assessment of learning is generally conducted for the purpose of placement of pupils at the next level of learning. Assessment brings about engaged learning when students know the expectations of the assessment and receive regular and constructive feedback that helps them improve.

There is a role for other forms of mathematics assessment tools. Take for example, journal writing. Through the way journal writing items or questions are crafted, besides concepts and skills, it is also possible to sieve out pupils’ attitudes and process skills.

Assessment is a 2-way process- data collection and data-analysis for a variety purpose based on student’s learning outcome, whether it is cognitive or non-cognitive.

Assessment must be discriminate so that we can find out the learning outcome and performance reading.

Facility Index (FI) & Discriminating Index (DI)

So, do use different modes of assessment to check the mastery of learning.

What I have learnt in Area is 5:

We were given geoboards, rubber bands and paper grids, and we are to come up with as many figures having the area 5 as possible. The activity helps us to recognise the patterns and make connections with area and perimeter. Also, we explored and experimented with different pattern combinations as directed by Dr Yeap and we were able to make assumptions about each combination and pattern. There was a lot of thinking going on and the activity generated much excitement fun to the lesson.

What I have learnt about dyscalculia and Newman Procedure:

Newman Procedure determines why some pupils could not work on challenging word problems.

Some Websites to explore

http://www.dyscalculia.org/dyscalculia-syndrome.

http://www.compasstech.com.au/ARNOLD/PAGES/newman.htm

Thank you, Dr Yeap for another eye-opener session:)