Alternative assessment is a method of gauging student performance outside of traditional question-and-answer testing. In science classes, lab performance, projects, multimedia presentations, case studies, role play and field trips are a few of many means to assess a student's education progress without tests, which rely merely on memorization of facts and figures. Alternative assessments can also include short-answer questions, essays, performance assessment, oral presentations, demonstrations, exhibitions, and portfolios.
Using this method to gauge student learning can be fun and interactive, fostering creativity and ingenuity in students. Science activities for alternative assessment are unlimited.
Alternative assessment is any type of assessment in which students create a response to a question or task. (In traditional assessments, students choose a response from a given list, such as multiple-choice, true/false, or matching.)
Under each grade level you will find a list of such assessments that can be used throughout the school year.