If we can use AFL strategies to get students to monitor their own progress and to use feedback to guide their learning, then we have truly accomplished something. Here is an example of how that might be done. This specific example is for a French 2 class. However, it's really a vocabulary example and could be used in any classroom where vocabulary was being taught. Actually, it could probably be applied many more situations than just vocabulary.
Each student receives a Progress Check Sheet at the beginning of the unit of study. The Progress Check Sheet includes all the vocabulary they will be learning during the unit. At the end of EACH class period, the students assess how well they know the vocabulary. It is important that this be done EACH day. There should never be a day when students don't receive some sort of feedback that they can use to guide their learning. In the end, the Progress Check Sheet becomes a personalized study guide. It won't surprise me, though, if a lot of kids don't need to study the night before the test. Assessing themselves each day is almost guaranteed to increase learning such that cramming before the test will no longer be necessary.
Here's an example of what the Progress Check Sheet might look like:
Discuss with your group or think on your own how this activity relates to the The Heart of AFL. Share your thoughts and ideas as replies to this Forum Discussion.
Replies
This checklist makes students responsible for their own learning. The teacher is not assigning a grade, but she can check to see who is doing well and who is having difficulty. The checklist gives constant feedback, makes students constantly aware of what is on the test, and makes an excellent study guide.
Self-assessment, daily, individualized study guide, daily teacher feed back
This helps students monitor their own progress of learning specific skills being taught.
Daily study, individualized working document.
This strategy fits the format of "AFL" because it demonstrates a planned process that shows progress. It shows strengths and weaknesses on a daily basis and still allows time for student improvement.
1. student monitoring own growth
2. How does teacher monitor data/info?
3. it is frequent
4. How is teacher using it to drive instruction?
5. using checklist to help practice for test/grade