Assessment for learning (KWL Chart)

Assessment for learning is an instructional strategy in which teachers use assessments to check in with student’s prior knowledge before entering a unit. By using assessment for learning, teachers can ensure they are not doing unnecessary review, or making lessons that students do not have the prior knowledge for. This instructional strategy allows teachers to modify their lessons for their students’ needs. As well, students can use this to see their improvement from the beginning to the end of a unit.

        There are many forms of assessment for learning. One great example that is easy to implement is a KWL chart. A KWL chart is a three-column chart with the headings “Know”, “Want to know” and “Learned”. At the beginning of each unit, students would fill out the “Know” and “Want to know” sections of the chart, and hand it in to the teacher. The teacher then could review these submissions and adjust their lessons. Finally, at the end of the unit, the KWL charts can be returned to the students, and they can fill out the “Learned” column. Not only is this a great method for the teacher, but it also allows for students to see their progress and have a visual representation of what they learned.