Offering Choice Menus for Differentiated Assessment

Participants will be given an example of a choice menu to see how this assessment tool can be used to diversify the paths to success for students with a wide range of abilities. Assessment menus grant autonomy and strengthen self-direction as students choose the type of assignment that appeals to them or allows them to utilize their strengths. Although students may complete the learning objective in a different format, the skills and content for the learning objectives are identical so all standards can be assessed equitably regardless of the method a child uses to apply their knowledge and practices. Allowing students to make their own decisions gives them a way to manage their time and apply what they are learning to their personal interests, improving class participation and retention. Each teacher will modify a template to create their own assessment menu for a chapter, unit, or thematic topic that is covered in their syllabus. We will critique the first version of these menus with questions and specific feedback so participants emerge with a completed assessment menu ready to use in their class.