Post-it Notes

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Purposes:

1. To expand or review understanding of assessment language
2. To develop a common language on which later activities can build

Uses:

Use in Chapter 1 as a mixer and to review assessment terminology. It is a good introductory activity.

Rationale:

It’s important to acknowledge the realities of the evolving vocabulary for assessment—and to point out the importance of crafting shared meaning in order to move forward.

Materials:

• Overhead projector, screen, blank transparencies, transparency pens
• Overhead: A1.3,O1—Post-itäNotes Purposes
• Handouts: Small pieces of paper or Post-itä notes containing definitions and terms (one possible set is included as Handout A1.3,H1—Definitions/Terms); the Glossary in Appendix E could be used as a handout
• Chart paper and marking pens (useful, but not necessary)

Time Required:

20 minutes

Facilitator’s Notes:

1. (5 minutes) In this warm-up activity, participants examine assessment-related definitions and key terms. Each participant receives either a definition or a term. Their task is to find the partner who has the matching definition/term. (Slips of paper with definitions or terms can be made by cutting apart Handout A1.3,H1. If possible, one color paper could be used for definitions and another for terms.)

   The definition slips can be handed out individually as an opportunity for the facilitator to greet participants before the formal opening of the session, or can be included in individual packets of session materials.

2. (10 minutes) Once participants have connected with the individuals they believe are their partners, ask each pair to place their term and definition on a chart until all terms and definitions are on the chart. With a large group, you can divide into smaller groups and have a chart for each group. With a relatively small group, review the intended matches, and clarify, solicit challenges, and refine meaning. With larger groups, you can have a walk-about in which participants seek confirmation of their choices in the work of other groups.

3. (5 minutes) Close this brief activity with a summary of terms and, if appropriate, offer the opportunity for participants to write questions that still remain on a chart which will remain posted throughout the session. These questions often prompt significant thinking and give the facilitator some guidance about how to stretch following activities to take in the concerns of participants.
   The Glossary in Appendix E could be used as a handout to summarize these and other important definitions.