Performance+Tasks

=What is a Performance Task?=


 * A problem or scenario that grabs students' attention and motivates them
 * Similar to project- or problem-based learning
 * Addresses power standards (reading, writing, problem-solving, technology) as well as content standards (English, social studies, math, science, health, etc.)
 * Contains the language of the standards ("LOTS")
 * Involves whole group instruction, small group activities, and individual work
 * Can be assessed in multiple ways: checklists, rubrics, quizzes, tests, portfolios, interviews, observations

=Anatomy of a Performance Task=

Standards

 * Not //every// unit or SOL needs a performance task. Save them for the really important or really "boring" SOLs.
 * Include power standards and content standards

Task Description

 * Motivates the students
 * Provides an outside audience
 * Poses a problem scenario
 * Includes group work

Whole Group Instruction

 * Direct instruction
 * Provide necessary background instruction

Small Group Work

 * Differentiated instruction
 * Checklists and rubrics

Individual Work

 * Must match the standards
 * Should be accompanied by a checklist and rubric

Assessments

 * Checklists, rubrics
 * Quizzes, tests
 * Portfolios, conferences

From: Burke, Kay. (2006). From standards to rubrics in six steps: Tools for assessing student learning. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin.