ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING
At St Monica’s College, assessment is very much part of the
learning process and is woven into everyday classroom activities where its
primary purpose is to improve student learning. The teaching and learning
program incorporates a variety of assessment practices that cater for different
types of learners and allows all students to achieve success and to demonstrate
what they know and can do.
Opportunities are provided for students to be involved in the
assessment process and in self and peer assessment in order to encourage higher
order thinking and to motivate students to take increasing responsibility for
their learning. Teachers take time in class to discuss learning and to model
reflective questions and journal entries. They work with students to ensure they
understand how to complete assessment tasks and their purpose. Students are
provided with assessment criteria or assessment rubrics prior to beginning major
tasks.
Assessment products range from performance based assessment
such as role plays or demonstrations, to various types of written tasks
including poetry, charts, speeches and reports, to visual and oral tasks or
assessments incorporating the use of technology. The ongoing collection of
accurate and effective assessment data assists teachers in planning appropriate
teaching and learning programs and provides students and parents with regular
feedback about students’ learning.
The formative assessment that is embedded in the day to day
teaching and learning program is supplemented by more traditional, summative
assessment at the end of each semester when students undertake tests and
examinations. Feedback is provided to students and parents by means of Criteria
Sheets and Assessment Rubrics, through formal Interim Reports at the end of
Terms 1 and 3 and Semester Reports at the end of Terms 2 and 4. The College is
committed to working with parents to encourage and support students in their
learning and there is provision for both formal and informal communication via
students’ planners, by telephone contact and by means of regular Parent Teacher
Interviews and information nights.