Three Course Objectives for a First Grade Classroom

Assessments are a very important aspect of education and is something that has been a point of contention for a while.  It is important to remember that tests and assessments are tools meant to help make important educational decisions and gauge a student's success but should not be the only factor considered (Kubiszyn & Borich, 2010).  Clearly defining objectives in the classroom is the first step in creating useful assessments that truthfully measure a student's learning and success (Kubiszyn & Borich, 2010).  Assessments that are created to specifically address each of the objectives set forth by the instructor have been able to provide a more detailed picture of the student (Combs, Gibson, Hays, Saly, & Wendt, 2008).  Providing quality instruction at an early age can help set a solid foundation to build upon for students.  Below are three learning objectives in a hypothetical first grade classroom in the subject of mathematics.

1. Learn the numbers beyond ten and up to twenty and understand their concepts.

2. Comprehend the process of addition of single digit numbers to equal single and/or double digit numbers up to twenty.

3. Comprehend the process of subtraction of single digit numbers to equal single and/or double digit numbers.

Once clear objectives are defined, test items are then created to measure these objectives.  Deciding on the format is important so that the test items accurately measure a student's knowledge on the subjects as well as making sure that they are valid and reliable with very little shortcomings (Kubiszyn & Borich, 2010).  Three test items that will measure the above outcomes accurately are:

1. Fill in the following blanks:
      10, __, __, 13, __, 14, __, ___, ___, 18, __, ___

2. Answer the following question.
             9+7=___
                a. 18
                b. 7
                c. 16
                d. 8   

3. Answer the following question.
            16-9=__
                a. 8
                b. 7
                c. 20
                d. 6

An essay question focuses on the student supplying the correct answer rather than selecting it and comprise of complex ideas and processes (Kubiszyn & Borich, 2010).  Although some people may not think addition and subtraction are complex topics, there are still ways to create an essay question that is appropriate for the subject and age group.

1. Provide a definition for addition.

Combs, K.L., Gibson, S.K., Hays, J.M., Saly, J., & Wendt, J.T. (2008).  enhancing curriculum and delivery: linking assessment to learning objectives.  Assessment & Evaluation in Higher Education, 33(1), pp.87-102.

Kubiszyn, T. & Borich, G. D. (2010), Educational testing and measurement: Classroom application and practice (9th ed.). United States: John Wiley and Sons, Inc.