Novel study Assessment Selection
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated Sept 19, 2023
Novel Study Assessment
Welcome back to the latest post in my series on how to plan a novel study. In my previous posts we talked about what novel studies are, determining your purpose, selecting your framework, and organizing your timeline. Today’s post is all about novel study assessment selection.
Looking for a STEP BY STEP Novel Study Planning Guide? Click on the image below to download your FREE guide!
For more information on teaching specific novels, you won’t want to miss our posts on teaching Because of Winn Dixie, Wonder, The Hunger Games, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and The Outsiders!
Begin with Backward design
Backward Design can greatly enhance the planning process when embarking on a novel study. Rather than diving headfirst into the creation of lesson plans, mini-lessons, and activities, this approach encourages educators to begin with a clear vision of the ultimate goal: the final assessment. First you need to establish how students will be evaluated at the culmination of the unit. Then educators can then work backward to develop a more purposeful and impactful plan.
Starting with the end in mind allows teachers to align their instructional strategies and activities with the desired learning outcomes. By clearly defining the assessment criteria, educators can identify the specific skills, knowledge, and understanding that students need to acquire throughout the unit. This deliberate approach enables teachers to structure their lessons and activities in a way that systematically builds towards the desired end result. Moreover, backward design encourages educators to consider the different ways in which students can demonstrate their learning. This promotes a more comprehensive and inclusive assessment approach.
By employing Backward Design, educators can ensure that their teaching is intentional and focused. By clarifying the desired learning outcomes and assessment criteria at the outset, teachers can craft meaningful and coherent lesson plans that align with these objectives. This method also helps educators identify any potential gaps or areas where additional support may be required. This allows for targeted instruction and intervention. Ultimately, Backward Design empowers teachers to create a purposeful learning experience that maximizes student engagement and achievement.
Focus on learning goals
First, it’s essential to remember that the purpose of a novel study is to foster deeper comprehension and critical thinking skills in students. Therefore, the final novel study assessment should not simply be a test of basic comprehension. Instead, consider what learning goals and standards you want to assess by the end of the unit. From there, determine how you will assess student learning. Will it be through a formal writing assignment, a reflection, a multi-faceted project, a formal discussion or presentation, or will students have a choice? As always, it is important to differentiate and choose activities that best meet the needs of the learners in front of you.
Plan the duration of your Novel Study assessment
Once you have decided on the final novel study assessment, add it to your calendar, including the final due date. This will allow you to work backward to create a timeline that includes all the necessary components to prepare students for the final novel study assessment. For example, certain assessments may require workshop days, peer revisions, or presentations, all of which need to be scheduled beforehand.
By starting at the end and working backward, you can create a more intentional and effective plan that will help your students achieve the learning goals and standards you’ve set for them.
For more novel study planning tips, be sure to check out this post on organizing your timeline.
Are you looking for more information on novel studies?
Check out these related blog posts below!
How to Plan a Novel Study: Organizing Your Timeline
Benefits of Teaching Novel Studies
Hatchet Novel Study Activities
Middle School Novel Study Favorites
On the hunt for novel study activities?
Check out all of the 30 different COMPLETE novel studies created by Creative Classroom Core on TPT! See them all by clicking on the image below!
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