Strategy 2: Use consistent methods to evaluate how well a student understands what he or she is learning

Identify student’s consistent access and response mode.
Identify methods of assessment that allow the student to demonstrate progress toward mastery of task.
- There are many ways to assess that a student is learning from what they are reading:
  - Modify formal assessment.
  - Reduce the number of items & answer choices.
  - Allow alternate response mode, such as eye gaze, picture symbols, etc.
    Assess using same materials, e.g., symbols/text, utilized for instruction.
  - Format assessment materials to match the student’s access mode.
Define observable/measurable progress (what does progress look like?).
- By using the task analysis models proposed by Browder, Downing and others, teachers can document progress in students’ literacy behaviors.
Determine frequency of assessment and data analysis.
Analyze data to modify instruction/strategies, if needed.

Have you considered whether the student’s preferred access mode may change between subject areas, e.g., Braille for reading/large print for math?
Are you allowing ample time for student to process questions and respond?
Does your assessment measure what you are trying to test?
Have you broken down the task into manageable and observable steps?