A Reader Writes... (Assessment vs. Benchmark - Part 1)

In response to the 9/21/11 post, “Assessment vs. Benchmark,” a reader writes:

SC,

I disagree. A benchmark test on what has been taught to a certain point is a diagnostic test. Correct me if I am wrong.

SC Response

It’s a matter of definition. 

LYS defines an “Assessment” as a test of content that has been previously been covered.  The appropriate (though exceedingly rare) use of an assessment is to determine how much of the covered material was effectively taught. 

LYS defines a “Benchmark” as a test of the entire course curriculum.  Benchmarks are often (inappropriately) administered prior to the entire curriculum being covered.

The problem with administering an early benchmark as a diagnostic instrument is that I have yet to witness any school that actually accelerated instruction due to students demonstrating mastery of material that had yet to be covered.  Instead, the pace of instruction slows because based on the benchmark results the campus has already “arrived.”  As for identifying students that need support and instruction, the benchmark only confirms what classroom teachers could already predict with near perfect accuracy.  Thus, the benchmark is an unnecessary and irrelevant encroachment on already limited instructional time.

Think. Work. Achieve.

Your turn...

Call Jo at (832) 477-LEAD to order your campus set of “The Fundamental 5: The Formula for Quality Instruction.” Individual copies available on Amazon.com!  http://tinyurl.com/4ydqd4t

Follow Sean Cain and LYS on www.Twitter.com/LYSNation

Confirmed 2012 Presentations: NASSP Conference; NASB Conference