Formative Assessment
Homework and Design Cycle Tasks (done in class) are designed to build knowledge and skill. When students complete Design Cycle Tasks they are exploring new ideas and developing new skills. Sometimes work needs to be re-done to meet course objectives. Formative homework assignments are often first attempts at work that will later be assessed as summative work. Students are encouraged to improve on their draft efforts (based on formative grading and feedback) to ensure success and earn higher marking period grades. That's why most Design Tech assignments may be re-done, usually within a week.
Design Cycle Tasks are formative because they “form” the learning needed to master course objectives. Most are designed and graded to reflect the individual contributions of each student and each student's daily/weekly progress in Design Tech. Formative assessments reflect daily engagement and success in meeting course objectives. Formative grades are not included in marking period averages (achievement), but do show engagement and are reflected in the marking period effort grades. (Middle school report cards include two grades for each class: Achievement and Effort).
Because formative assignments are designed to foster learning, they have minimal impact on the final report card average. However, when students achieve the course objectives by mastering formative assignments (Design Cycle Tasks, homework, etc...), they are better able and prepared for success on summative assignments (which do determine actual report card grades). See Assessment tab above for more on summative assessments.
Design Cycle Tasks are formative because they “form” the learning needed to master course objectives. Most are designed and graded to reflect the individual contributions of each student and each student's daily/weekly progress in Design Tech. Formative assessments reflect daily engagement and success in meeting course objectives. Formative grades are not included in marking period averages (achievement), but do show engagement and are reflected in the marking period effort grades. (Middle school report cards include two grades for each class: Achievement and Effort).
Because formative assignments are designed to foster learning, they have minimal impact on the final report card average. However, when students achieve the course objectives by mastering formative assignments (Design Cycle Tasks, homework, etc...), they are better able and prepared for success on summative assignments (which do determine actual report card grades). See Assessment tab above for more on summative assessments.