Assessments:

Mizzentop Day School teachers strive to strengthen curriculum and assessment using the method developed by nationally recognized educators Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe, referred to as "backward design." Mizzentop employs a range of assessment methods to promote understanding in students. The development of our curriculum and assessment is based on the following beliefs:

• A primary goal of education should be the development and deepening of student understanding.

• Students reveal their understanding most effectively when they are provided with complex, authentic opportunities to explain, interpret, apply, shift perspective, empathize, and self-assess. When applied to complex tasks, these "six facets" provide a conceptual lens through which teachers can better assess student understanding.

Reporting on Student Assessment

The academic year is divided into three trimesters. Progress reports are completed for students in all grades each trimester. Letter grades, in addition to written comments, are given to students in Grades 4-8. Students are graded on non-academic factors called Behavviors that Supportt learning, these include thigns like preparedness, effort, respect, participation etc. “Behaviors That Support Learning” are assessed each marking period for students, these include things such as preparedness, effort, respect, participation etc. A summary grade is communicated home at the midpoint of each trimester. These midterm grades are checkpoints only, and not noted on the student's record.

Exams

Standardized Testing