1. An authentic task is an assignment to assess how learners apply objective-driven knowledge and skills to real-world challenges.

2. We are less interested in how much information students can acquire than how well they can use it.

Authentic Task

Authentic Task

When presented with a real-world problem to solve

The same authentic task used to measure the students' ability to apply the knowledge or skills is used for student learning.

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Authentic Tasks are seamlessly integrated with assessment

Constructed-Response In response to a prompt, students construct an answer from old and new knowledge.

Since there is no one right answer, students are constructing new knowledge that differs from other students.

Typically, constructed response prompts are narrowly conceived, delivered at or near the same time and limited in length.

However, the fact that students must construct new knowledge means that at least some of their thinking must be revealed. As opposed to selected response items, the teacher gets to look at what the learner is thinking.

Photo by: Nicholas Gray

Constructed-Response Examples

Product-like:• Short-answer essay questions• Journal response• "Show your work"

Concept mapsFigural

representation (e.g., Venn diagram)

Performance-like:• Typing test• Complete a step in a science lab• On demand demonstrated or

constructa short musical a dance a dramatic response

an athletic skill

Photo by: Luke Redmond

PerformanceIn response to an assignment, students construct a performance that reveals their understanding of certain concepts and skills and/or their ability to apply, analyze, synthesize or evaluate those concepts and skills.

Since there is no one right answer, students are required to construct new knowledge and not just select a response.

Performances typically are more substantial in depth and length, more broadly conceived, and allow more time between the presentation of the assignment and the student response than constructed-response items.

Photo by: jeremy.wilburn

Performance Examples

Examples include•Conducting an experiment•Musical, dance or dramatic performances•Debates•Athletic competition•Oral presentation

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Product Examples

•Essays, stories or poems•Research reports•Extended journal responses•Art exhibit or portfolio•Lab reports•Newspaper•Poster

Photo by: Brit.

ProductsIn response to an assignment or series of prompts, students construct a substantial, tangible product that reveals their understanding of certain concepts and skills and/or their ability to apply, analyze, synthesize or evaluate those concepts and skills.

Since there is no one right answer, students are required to construct new knowledge and not just select a response. Product assessments typically are more substantial in depth and length, more broadly conceived, and allow more time between the presentation of the prompt and the student response than constructed-response items.

Photo by: The Pulitzer

Task Assessments

Both advocates will prepare a presentation supporting their position and attacking the opposing position

Neutral Listener will point to one of the Advocates. This person will make her presentation for 60 seconds. Immediately after this, the other Advocate will make her presentation.

Assessments

Both advocates will prepare a presentation supporting their position and attacking the opposing position

Neutral Listener will point to one of the Advocates. This person will make her presentation for 60 seconds. Immediately after this, the other Advocate will make her presentation.

Task Assessments

Both advocates will prepare a presentation supporting their position and attacking the opposing position

Neutral Listener will point to one of the Advocates. This person will make her presentation for 60 seconds. Immediately after this, the other Advocate will make her presentation.

Assessments

Both advocates will prepare a presentation supporting their position and attacking the opposing position

Neutral Listener will point to one of the Advocates. This person will make her presentation for 60 seconds. Immediately after this, the other Advocate will make her presentation.

Task Assessments

Both advocates will prepare a presentation supporting their position and attacking the opposing position

Neutral Listener will point to one of the Advocates. This person will make her presentation for 60 seconds. Immediately after this, the other Advocate will make her presentation.