Performance Based Assessments: A Brainstorm

Understanding is revealed when students can transfer their learning to new and “messy” situations. Note that not all performances require transfer. For example, playing a musical instrument by following the notes or conducting a step-by-step science lab require minimal transfer. In contrast, rich performance tasks are open-ended and call “higher-order thinking” and the thoughtful application of knowledge and skills in context, rather than a scripted or formulaic performance.

https://blog.performancetask.com/what-is-a-performance-task-part-1-9fa0d99ead3b

Man.

In some ways, online spaces seem perfect for performance based assessments.  In other ways, it feels like disaster!  So here it is... my brainstorm space, made public because I know I'm not alone!

What might work:

SOCIAL STUDIES....
* Write a letter as (historical figure) regarding your thoughts and feelings about (topic).  Respond in character to other figures' letters.

SCIENCE....
* Design an experiment to investigate (topic)
* Write a letter to the editor about the importance of (environmental topic)

MATH....
* Given a set of criteria (size, budget, etc),  design a room or building (show geometric understanding)
* Write a two step word problem, trade with peers, solve

LANGUAGE ARTS....
* Write a book, a booklet, a play....
* Debate an issue (good use of flipgrid or discussion board!)