[Violet4]

I stumble over the question "how do you assess?"

I'm a specialist (music/PE/art) I don't specify which subject here for anonymity.

Because I don't know how to explain "they do an assignment, I put it in my gradebook, it averages out in their grade" in a way that is exciting.

If anyone can throw suggestions my way I'd appreciate it.

[kahluablast]

I would address different types of assessments I would do. Do you do observational assessments? What does a project look like for you? Long term, short daily project. Do you use rubrics? Do kids have input into rubrics and how do they know how they are doing? How many grades do the students receive that input into their scores? Do they all weigh the same? How do you know when they know? That type of thing.

[Violet4]

Thank you. This helps.

[tmbg]

You can also address assessing growth - using pre-assessments and tracking how well they play their instrument (or whichever subject). Tracking growth is really important and a great assessment tool.

[ellenroo]

I'm a specialist too. So I always mention growth like PP said. Success in a specialized course varies from student to student. I have daily grades about twice a week that I do through observation and student's self assessment. Also participation factors in. If they're fully trying they're going to pass my class. I also use test grades and I use a rubric that allows those not particularly skilled in my area but are trying to still make good grades. It measures the actual skill level, yes, but it also measures the effort. Specialties can't always be assessed like a math or English class.