Assessment Definitions

The following definitions are put forth to help with better understanding the various types of assessment there are in PE.

Alternative Assessment Defined

An alternative assessment is one which is different from those assessments which we normally give students (i.e., true/false, matching, essay questions, standardized tests, etc.). They are "untraditional", (i.e., drawing a picture, making a video of a particular skill, etc). On many occassions this type of assessing allows students to create a product that the teacher will have to grade (usually using a rubric). Often times students work with other classmates to complete.

Authentic Assessment Defined

This is an assessment done in a "real-life" setting, as opposed to a more "sterile" testing situation. The instruction and assessment are both born out of situations from what our life is really like. For example, instead of taking a skill out of the context of the game, we would observe the skill IN the game. The more the assessment takes place in "real life", the more authentic it is.

Performance Assessment Defined

An assessment in which students are asked to make, do, or create something--basically, the 3 "P's": A performance task (doing something, like a gymnastics sequence); product task (like an art project); or portfolio task (essay, brochure, etc.). Students actually create, as opposed to just regurgitating answers on a test form.

Rubric Defined

A rubric is a rating scale and list of criteria by which student knowledge, skills, and/or performance can be assessed.

Click here to see examples of rubrics.

Submitted by Reginald S. Kimball & Christine Hopple. Reggie teaches PE in Stockbridge, GA and Christine teaches at Ithaca College in Ithaca, NY. Thanks for contributing to PE Central!

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