Essay and Multiple Choice Tests

I believe that both essay tests and multiple-choice tests are nothing without the other. If I were to give my class a multiple choice test am I really finding out whether they have grasped the concept of the subject? Without adding on essay questions I can never really be sure whether the students are just making random guesses at the answers or if they truly understand what is being asked. Essay questions allow me to see that not only did the student grasp the topic, but they can also explain it in their own words. It is important to know that the class is comprehending the material as well as memorizing it.

Portfolios

The idea of portfolios is more appealing then actually using portfolios for a type of assessment. I remember having portfolios in third grade rather than report cards. I would choose random assignments and write whatever could quickly come into my mind about them. My parents would set up an appointment to come in and see my portfolio and to speak about my progress with my teacher. I would sit outside the classroom while this went on, left out of the whole process. I would much rather be able to see a grade than to have this abstract idea about my supposed progress. This is why I believe I will stick with tests in my own classroom this way I can see what my students really know and where they are struggling.