Writing test items can be a difficult part of teaching. Each type of test item has both advantages and disadvantages. For example, matching tests can be easy to construct and score, but emphasize memorization on the student’s part. Multiple choice tests allow for easy scoring as you’re only counting the number of correct answers. However, writing this type of test can be time-consuming to write, and must be carefully written.
The test items I chose were based on the experiences I’ve had working with 4th grade students. Since I have primarily worked with students with moderate to severe behavior issues, stemming from various causes, these test items tended to work best. For the most part, they were easy to construct, and seem to have been easier for my students to understand. I want to make sure students are retaining information from lessons taught, and in turn, able to reflect their understanding on tests.
Fourth-graders use writing in almost all subjects. They have to write book reports and short stories, or simply tell about their weekends. I think it is important to help them build upon their writing skills not only during regular classroom time, but during tests as well. Essay items further allow teachers to determine how much students have learned and what can be improved upon.
Whichever type of test item you choose be sure it is carefully constructed to help test your learning outcomes. Having a clear sense of what it is you want students to know at the end of lessons makes test-writing easier.
HAPPY TESTING!!!
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