authentic evaluation

This time of the semester, Affinity embarks on projects that involve all the children in the school. These projects represent a type of evaluation called authentic evaluation in educational jargon that are considered the highest form of student evaluation that can be asked. A student must decide upon a topic, gather materials, put something together that is interesting to observers. This type of evaluation really shows what the child has learned, much more than simply answering questions on a test.

These projects in order of presentation are the theatrical plays, the festa junina and all its art displays, and the recital. These projects show incredible art works that were decided upon by the students with their teachers, representing the various states of Brazil, their music and dances, the plays which also demonstrate music and artwork as well as the theatre art of drama, and the musical presentations of students studying violin and piano, as well as ensembles. The learning represented in these presentations is immense. All students participate and contribute, from the tiniest to the oldest.

Dr. Rudolf Dreikurs, the world famous child psychologist, states that children are born with a desire to be a part of the group and to contribute to that group. The projects at this time of the year would certainly gain Dr. Dreikur's complete and highest commendations. Still more, what is as fun and satisfying as working together to produce something worthwhile? All of us, staff and children, as well as the parents, look forward to these unique events at the end of every semester with eagerness and joy.

​Mrs. Sue

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