Overview

In this performance assessment, students will read an informational text and record their own main ideas and thoughts about the text on sticky notes, which they will paste on an anchor chart. Then, in small groups, students will rearrange the sticky notes into categories, writing a header on the paper above each grouping of sticky notes. Finally, students will individually write a reflection about their learning from this activity. 

Specifically, students will be asked to prepare for and participate in a discussion about a topic, asking and responding to questions about the group affinity maps, and finally provide a reflection on their learning. Pictures of group maps and student-written reflections from that group should be uploaded together into a folder and then reflections scored individually. 

This assessment can be completed at any point in the school year. While it would be helpful for students to have experience with affinity mapping, it is not necessary for this performance assessment. For engagement and connected learning purposes, you may choose an ELA, science, or social studies unit with which to connect this performance assessment. This assessment is intended to assess students’ ability to prepare for, participate in, and reflect on a discussion activity rather than their knowledge of the content. 

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Details

Big Ideas & Competencies

Big Ideas Competencies

D. Speaking and Listening

Students can listen effectively, present information appropriately to a variety of audiences, given the situation, and collaborate with peers.

D2

Students can actively participate in collaborative discussions by coming prepared, following rules for discussion, asking, and responding to questions, paraphrasing, and reflection.

NOTE ABOUT ASSESSMENT RUBRICS

Below are analytic teacher rubrics. The column on the left shows the dimension that is being measured in the student’s performance. The levels across the top row indicate the performance level in the dimensions. Occasionally all dimensions and performance levels are exemplified by multiple students in a single recording.

Teacher Rubric

Dimensions Not Yet Meeting Expectations Meeting Expectations Exceeding Expectations

Relevance of Ideas
  • Some ideas are relevant, but many do not relate well to the main topic. Not enough responses.
No exemplars at this time.
  • All ideas are relevant to the main topic and contribute to understanding of the topic.
No exemplars at this time.
  • All ideas included are highly relevant to the main topic, are unique, and contribute significantly to understanding of the topic.
No exemplars at this time.

Organization of Map
  • The map shows some organization, but it is difficult to follow in places or is disorganized altogether.
No exemplars at this time.
  • The map is generally organized, though some areas may be slightly disjointed or categories not well marked/chosen.
No exemplars at this time.
  • The map is exceptionally organized, with a logical flow that enhances comprehension.
No exemplars at this time.

Collaborative Discussion
  • Involves a few group members, with limited perspectives represented or little collaboration with one or two members taking over.
No exemplars at this time.
  • Involves all group members, with some perspectives included.
No exemplars at this time.
  • Actively involves all group members in the creation process, incorporating diverse perspectives. Actively seeking out involvement from all group members individually.
No exemplars at this time.

Reflection
  • Offers minimal reflection, and lacks connection to the learning experience.
  • Reflection is poorly organized, making it difficult to understand.
No exemplars at this time.
  • Reflects on the learning experience with good understanding, though may lack some depth.
  • Generally organized and clear but may have minor issues in flow or clarity.
No exemplars at this time.
  • Provides insightful and thorough reflections on the learning experience, demonstrating a deep understanding of concepts.
  • Reflection is well-organized and clearly articulated, making it easy to follow and understand.
No exemplars at this time.

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