Assessment serves many purposes in the elementary classroom. Formative assessment, often called assessment for learning, is characterized by its primary purpose--promoting learning. It takes place both formally and informally, is embedded in various stages of an instructional cycle, informs the teacher about appropriate next steps for instruction,…

This publication concentrates on assessments that occur on a day-to-day basis within the science classroom. Such classroom assessments constitute an ongoing process in which teachers and students interact to promote enhanced student learning. This process involves using a variety of assessment strategies and tools to collect information about…

This seven-part book provides the first detailed analysis and assessment of the development of primary science prior to and following a national survey of primary schools in 1978. Key issues central to contemporary policy and practice are identified, set in context, and interrelated for teachers, students, and policymakers. Part I examines several…