Teaching English Language Arts typically involves successful traditional methods that include peer discussions, reader response journals, quizzes, writing conferences, essay responses, and oral presentations. As students continue to enter the English classroom with high levels of technological fluency, it makes sense to transition these classic models. Technology provides crucial support when it comes to E.L.A. assessments and teaching.
Online Assessments
Students are easily engaged with online learning. Online assessments give students instant feedback while providing the teacher with valuable, documented information. Teachers can use the information to tailor future lessons and assignments based on the needs of individuals, small groups or the whole class.
Online Writing
Completing written responses and essays online allows students to practice for standardized assessments that are mandatory throughout their educational careers. Features like audio notes and comment capabilities allow teachers to communicate with students through those online documents. Students can then make adjustments and see their writing improve right before their eyes.
Social Media Discussion
Online assessment can come in many different forms that engage students. A running social media discussion of assigned reading encourages students to keep pushing the limits of their critical thinking skills and lays the foundation for more in-depth reasoning and writing skills.
Explore Student Response Polls
While many of the above examples provide teachers with instant feedback on what students know, online polls can clarify more specific questions about a lesson’s effectiveness. Polls can encourage students to honestly answer tough questions, especially if they still feel like they are struggling to master a subject.
This can also lead to a self-assessment blog or online journal for students to keep a personal, running report of how they are progressing.
How do you use technology to support your E.L.A. assessments?