Mod 5 Discussion: Formal and Informal Assessments

I like to vary the types of formative assessments given in the classroom to prevent anything from feeling too stiff, but my favorite two every year are usually what is now called "Fish Bowl" and Gallery Walks. They both allow for collaboration and for me to have a solid grasp on what they have mastered. This is also terrific as it allows for students to learn from one another and allow for the interaction from their peers to fill in any gaps they may have. They were also successful in the fact that students are actually excited to complete these tasks.  

One that I am antsy to try this year is "Brick and Mortar" cards. It seems like a a genius way for students to organize their learning while allowing for me to visually see their thinking. I am so excited for it. The ranking could lead to them being able to defend the logic used and made connections that could go beyond what is provided in the text.