Assessment of Student Learning in Science.

As part of a series of documents describing assessment of student learning in various curriculum areas in South Carolina, this document reviews the assessment of student learning in the science classroom. The report begins with a discussion of effective science learning, and outlines the knowledge, skills, and dispositions that encompass science education. Reform efforts currently underway to transform school science are described. Alternative methods of assessment that support curriculum and instruction and promote exemplary science learning are explored, and a brief summary of activities in science assessment in selected states is provided. Performance assessments that are discussed include: (1) performance tests and tasks; (2) open-ended questions; (3) student journals; and (4) computer simulations. Portfolios and concept maps are other forms of authentic assessment that are discussed. Appendix A presents an example of a hands-on science assessment, and Appendix B presents a problem and a concept map. (SLD) *********************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. *********************************************************************** 4 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Office of Educe liOnal Research and Improvement EDU9,AT1ONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER IERICI This document has .:den reproduced as received from the person or Organization originating it 0 Minor changes have been made to improve reproduction quality Points of view Cr opinionsstated in !Ns docu. menf dO not necessarily represent official OERI positron or policy 4 "PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE THIS MATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY 'Z/9ue4 70 THE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC)."