Test Less Assess More: A K-8 Guide to Formative Assessment

Learn assessment strategies that provide you with a real representation of student progress – without the need for excessive testing. In Test Less, Assess More: A K-8 Guide to Formative Assessment, authors Leighangela Brady and Lisa McColl show you how to turn daily classroom lessons and activities into valuable opportunities for assessment, eliminating redundant tests as you increase the effectiveness of your overall assessment schedule. Brady and McColl explain ways to apply meaningful assessment methods in line with current curriculum standards. Teachers will be able to clearly define learning goals for students as they plan their assignments. Test Less, Assess More is for teachers and administrators who want to shift their focus away from by-the-books tests that do not accurately measure learning levels. This book will help you begin to take steps toward meaningful, activity-integrated assessments.

Leighangela Brady received both her B.s. and M.A. degrees from the University of Connecticut. Now living in San Diego, Mrs. Brady has taught in various teaching assignments from kindergarten through fifth grade, including a bilingual placement and specialized pullout instruction for English Learners. After leaving the classroom, Leighangela became an academic literacy coach for teachers. This position ignited an already sparked passion for curriculum and instruction and helped to further develop her strength as a curriculum leader. Within a few years, Leighangela became a vice principal in a unique K-8 setting. She is currently serving as a principal of a K-6 elementary school. As a site administrator, educational consultant, and instructional leader, Mrs. Brady is passionate about quality teaching. She is a wife and mother as well as cofounder of a small company called Teaching Simply. Leighangela plans to retire one day to her home in the Fiji Islands., Lisa McColl received both her B.S. and M.A. degrees from San Diego State University. Mrs. McColl has taught in various settings including both private and public schools and has worked with a variety of students from kindergarten through eighth grade including students identified as Gifted and Talented. After leaving the classroom, Lisa became a Language Arts demonstration teacher / instructional coach and was fortunate to be able to share her passion for advancing all levels of learning with teachers at multiple grade levels and on multiple sites. Lisa soon moved into the position of site administration and has been active as an instructional leader for the past 9 years. Her commitment to life-long learning has guided her career path. She is currently serving as a principal of a K-8 elementary school as well as teaching at Chapman University. As cofounder of a small company called Teaching Simply, Lisa continues her work in order to ensure that all students achieve maximum levels of success.