Assessing Writing to Support Learning: Turning Accountability Inside Out

The authors of this book propose a new approach to writing assessment that focuses on student learning and success, moving away from high-stakes, test-based writing assessment and the curriculum it generates. They argue that a test-based approach to accountability and current practices have undermined effective teaching and learning of writing. The book offers a new ecological approach to writing assessment that bridges the gap between real-world writing and standardized writing assessments. It provides guidance on designing assessments to address multiple kinds of writing, integrate reading with writing, and incorporate digital technology and multimodality. The authors emphasize the central role of teachers in systemic reform and offer sample assessments developed with intensive teacher involvement.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In their groundbreaking book, Murphy and ONeill present a transformative approach to writing assessment, moving away from high-stakes, test-based practices that hinder effective teaching and learning. By critically examining the landscape of writing assessment and existing research-based theories, the authors demonstrate how a test-based approach to accountability and current practices have undermined the development of writing skills.

To address this issue, the book offers a fresh perspective by bridging the gap between real-world writing and standardized writing assessments. It proposes a new ecological approach to writing assessment that emphasizes student learning and success.

Through their innovative approach, Murphy and ONeill empower teachers to understand the role of formative assessments and assessment as inquiry. They provide practical guidance on designing assessments that align with contemporary understandings of writing, integrate reading with writing, and incorporate digital technology and multimodality.

Chapters in the book showcase examples of assessments from elementary school to college, offering insights on how to address various types of writing, promote integration, and incorporate technology. The authors emphasize the central role of teachers in systemic reform and provide sample assessments developed with intensive teacher involvement that support learning and provide valuable information for program evaluation and school improvement.

This book is a valuable resource for graduate students, instructors, scholars, and policymakers in writing assessment, composition, and English education. It offers a comprehensive and evidence-based framework for transforming writing assessment practices and promoting effective teaching and learning. By embracing a student-centered approach and fostering a culture of inquiry, educators can create assessment systems that truly reflect the skills and knowledge needed for success in the 21st century.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032268095