Module 9, Session1
Activity 4


Directions:Ý The following is a chart that compares norm-referenced and criterion-referenced tests.Ý The purpose of the assessment is provided on the left.Ý You are to indicate (a) the type of test, whether norm-or criterion-referenced, (b) an example of the test, and (c) the primary users of the tests.Ý This is an adaptation of a chart prepared by Prince George County Public Schools and can be found in Ruder & Schafer (2002, pp. 24 -25).Ý

Purpose of test

Test type

Example

Users of test

1.Ý To track achievement of a cohort of students through the system or area to determine the extent to which their achievement improves over time.

2.Ý To assess the extent to which a given student is learning the essential objectives of the school system's curriculum and, subsequently, to adjust instruction for that student.

3.Ý To assess the extent to which students in a single grade level (at district, building, or classroom level) have mastered the essential objectives of the school system's curriculum.


Purpose of test

Test type

Example

Users of test

4.Ý To compare achievement of subgroups of local students to achievement of similar subgroups in the nation, state, or other districts in a given year.

5.Ý To compare achievement of one local school's student subgroup (e.g. sex, race, or age) to achievement of another such subgroup in a given year to determine the equity of educational outcomes.

6.Ý To compare achievement of local students to achievement of students in the nation, state, or other districts in a

given year.

7.Ý How are norm-referenced and criterion-referenced assessments used in alternative classroom settings?Ý How might they be used better?

8.Ý What are the at least 2 pros and 2 cons of using norm-referenced and criterion-referenced assessments in alternative classrooms settings?

 

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