Here is a list of ideas for developing non-exam alternative assessments to formally assess high-level learning.
Writing projects
- Add a chapter to a book.
- Construct an autobiography of a protagonist’s or antagonist’s life.
- Rewrite a constitution.
- Design a funding proposal.
- Write an editorial.
- Write a movie script.
- Create a resume/cover letter for a mythical character or a real person.
- Author a short story.
- Design a contract with relevant data.
- Write an essay.
- Keep a journal.
- Write a memoir.
- Write a play script.
- Initiate correspondence.
- Write a eulogy.
- Write a will for a fictional or historical person.
- Author a bill of rights.
- Write a poem.
Design projects
- Design a brochure.
- Create a museum display.
- Design a flowchart.
- Construct a map.
- Construct a relief map.
- Design a scale model.
- Develop a scrapbook.
- Design an advertisement.
- Create original awards.
- Design games/puzzles.
- Design and collate a review of books.
- Design play scenery.
- Design a sculpture that expresses…
- Create a time capsule.
- Design a children’s book.
- Develop a computer program.
- Analyze a flag and create a design that expresses contemporary issues.
- Create rules of etiquette.
- Design scientific equipment.
- Invent song lyrics.
- Create a timeline.
Media projects
- Document an oral history.
- Create a photo display.
- Design a poster.
- Create a collage.
- Paint a mural.
- Use a musical instrument to express…
- Use painting/drawing to express…
- Report current events as a news show.
- Develop a podcast.
- Design a diorama.
Research projects
- Develop a chart.
- Design and implement a survey.
- Research a family tree.
- Graph data.
- Outline a research paper.
Adapted from: Wlodkowski, R. J. & Ginsberg, M. B. (1995) Engendering Competence. In Diversity and Motivation: Culturally Responsive Teaching. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, pp. 250-52.