In high school history classes, many students may struggle with traditional note taking, test taking, and other typical ways of showing knowledge. So when a teacher offers some alternatives for demonstrating learning throughout the year, a wider range of students may shine.
We found a great example of an alternative assessment on this blog maintained by Caitlin Johnson. Johnson used primary sources (propaganda posters) as a way to gain the interest of her eleventh grade students and teach them about World War II. After showing a slideshow of posters and discussing slogans and themes, she had students choose one theme and make their own poster. Students were able to choose whether they wanted to draw their posters or cut pictures from magazines. Even something as simple as offering this choice allows learners with different needs to thrive. Those who struggle with fine motor skills or do not see themselves as strong artists can create sophisticated posters with the magazines. Further, by offering this choice to all, the one or two students who might really need an alternative to drawing don’t feel like they are the only ones participating differently. A simple but elegant way to differentiate process in the diverse classroom.
About Paula Kluth
