Formative Assessment in Action: Weaving the Elements Together

Synopsis

This follow-up to Shirley Clarke's hugely popular Unlocking Formative Assessment focuses on bringing it all together in the primary classroom - how to weave all the elements of formative assessment, coherently and manageably, into everyday teaching. Uniquely, this book develops whole-lesson examples to showcase the key elements of formative assessment in action. Each chapter defines powerful aspects of formative assessment which are then exemplified in a teacher's own short account of a real lesson or series of lessons: how to establish clear learning objectives and success criteria; how to use questioning to transform the lesson focus and elevate thinking and learning; how to encourage self- and peer evaluation; and how to incorporate effective feedback into the lesson format through modelling and self- and paired marking. Throughout, Shirley's commentary and analysis draw on extensive classroom feedback from her teacher action-research teams across the UK, highlighting new ideas and good practice as formative assessment continues to develop and evolve. The formative assessment elements are illustrated with examples, diagrams and classroom realia, while summaries and INSET suggestions are provided at the end of each chapter. Ways of strengthening headteacher and LEA support and implementation strategies are also examined. Above all, this book will give teachers new confidence to experiment, analyse and modify their practice, to make formative assessment work in their own classrooms.