Standardized tests do not always provide a complete picture of a student's strengths and weaknesses, particularly individuals with disabilities. This book highlights the rationale, construction, use, and evaluation of informal assessment techniques. A model is included for school personnel to follow. Teachers, counselors, and others will find this model for informally assessing students to be helpful in understanding the various learning styles of children and to develop functional curricula. Chapters cover observational techniques, analyzing and evaluating informal assessment data, communicating results, and grading. Useful appendixes include Observation Checklist, A Sample Rubric Assessment Sheet, and Learning Outcomes and Informal Methods of Evaluation. These assessment tools will be particularly helpful of beginning teachers in developing questioning techniques to promote critical thinking.

Author Biography

George R. Taylor is professor and head of the Department of Special Education at Coppin State College and Core Faculty at the Union Institute.