Introduction

A. Purpose for Workshop
The presenter shared how she had taken another look at
alternative assessments on a classroom level after learning
about California's successful EL Civics grant program.

B. Schedule and Preferences of Participants
The participants wanted to concentrate on a sample classroom
project rather than the place of alternative assessments
in EL Civics. The presenter mentioned that the resources
on the handout would provide lots of information about
EL Civics.

 Alternative Assessments at a Classroom Level

A. Learner Oriented
Alternative assessments help to identify learner's needs and goals.
They emphasize student strength and growth.
They take into consideration learning styles.
They can assess attitudes, not just skills.

B. Performance ­ Based / Project ­ Based
They determine learner's ongoing progress in meeting classroom
objectives.

C. Authentic and Relevant
They give immediate and relevant feedback to learners and instructors.
They help teacher adjust curriculum to meet needs.

D. Help Meet Guidelines for Funding

 Beyond Portfolios and Journals

A. Pre and Post Surveys

B. Evaluation Checklists

C. Interviews and Roleplays

D. Oral Reports

E. Content Logs, Journals

F. Observation Measures

G. Performance Samples

Moving from Needs to Objectives to Curriculum to Assessment

A. Classroom Needs Assessment

B. Priority Civic Objectives

C. Lifeskill and Language Objectives

D. Curriculum

E. Assessment

F. Reports and Analysis

G.Adjustment of Curriculum

Renting an Apartment: Sample Project Objectives

A. Priority Civic Objective
Students will be able to research and select appropriate
housing options in their community.

B. CASAS Competencies - Sample
On a basic level, students will be able to select appropriate housing
by interpreting classified ads, signs, and other information.

C. Lifeskill and Language Objectives - Sample
On a basic level, students will be able to select an appropriate
apartment and give reasons for their choice by comparing
and contrasting apartment options.

D. Final Project
The class will make a pamphlet for newcomers.

Renting an Apartment: Alternative Assessments

Note: These assessment tools are available in .pdf format. They are not as clear online as they could be because they are set for printing.

A. Pre-Project Survey

B. Interest Survey

C. Time Chart for Computer Use

If you would like, you can see some screen shots of the "Renting an Apartment" lesson in my software project, Sound Sentences II.

D. Interview

E. Individual Field Test Checklist

F. Writing Sample

G. Class Grid

H. Oral Presentation on Video (Not included)

I. Draft and Final Page for Class Project (Not included)

J. Class Project: Pamphlet (Not included)

K. Post-Project Survey (Same as Pre-Project Survey)

L. Final Checklist

 Resources

A. Links to Assessment and EL Civics Websites

B. Printable Resource Page