Bresciani+Journal+6

This week I was able to observe the students taking a timed math test, which in this case was a timed addition/subtraction test. My cooperating teacher mentioned that her students had been struggling with their basic math facts, and really wants them to practice answering their facts without counting on their fingers. The teacher announced to the class that it was time to take the test and immediately they all cleared off their desks and waited with anticipation. It seemed as if some students were excited and some where very anxious/nervous. The teacher explained that they had two minutes to complete as many of the math facts as they could. After the teacher administered the test, the students began frantically writing. The teacher also advised the students not to count on their fingers. While walking around the classroom and observing the students, some seemed to be struggling to find the right answer, some seemed to carelessly be writing down answers to finish the test, while some were accurately answering each question in a timely manor.

This performance based assessment was used to help the students practice their basic math skills, and provide the teacher and student with feedback regarding the student’s ability to complete their basic math facts accurately. I have mixed emotions about this assessment. First, I believe that this assessment did provide the teacher with feedback towards the student’s basic math facts ability. The assessment was useful because it reminded students that basic math facts are important to learn, and they will not be allowed to count on their fingers for the rest of their lives. However, I believe that this performance assessment also brings a lot of anxiety and tension to students. A lot of times, a student may be very accurate with their basic math facts, however, when they are placed into a timed atmosphere their test anxiety may prevent them from answering the questions correctly.

Therefore, I believe that this form of assessment is not only a useful way to practice basic math facts but it helps provide teachers and students with feedback about each student’s performance and progress with basic math facts. However, the timed test provides a competitive and anxious atmosphere for a lot of students which can further alter the accuracy of the results and feedback.