Instructional Playbook

Assessment & High Quality Teaching Critical Actions for Educators

Assessment cycles are a critical component of the Utah High-Quality Instruction (HQI) Teaching Cycle, serving as both a guide and a feedback loop for effective teaching and learning. Rooted in the framework, assessment is not a one-time event but an ongoing process that informs every phase of instruction—planning, teaching, and reflecting. By using formative, summative, and diagnostic assessments strategically, educators can better understand student progress, adjust instruction in real time, and ensure learning experiences are responsive and equitable. Assessment cycles empower teachers to make data informed decisions that drive student growth, aligning seamlessly with the reflective and adaptive nature of Utah’s HQI Teaching Cycle.

Follow the High-Quality Teaching Instructional Cycle Track classroom and benchmark assessment data. Utilize all other forms of data on Data Dashboard to align support to student need.

The Role of Assessments in the High-Quality Instructional Cycle:

1.Identifying the learning goals and outcomes early in the planning process ensures that the assessments are aligned with the standards and demonstrate what students know and are able to do. 2.By continuously reviewing assessment data, teachers can plan targeted and purposeful instruction that addresses student needs and is aligned to learning goals. 3.Formative and low-stakes assessments allow teachers to receive immediate feedback and adjust their instruction to meet students’ needs. 4.By using a variety of assessment types and continuously monitoring student progress, teachers can provide targeted and effective instruction that meets the needs of all learners. 5.

Regular assessments help track student progress over time. This continuous monitoring, analyzing, and reflecting on assessment data allows teachers to identify patterns and intervene early to provide extension or intervention. Using assessment data allows teachers to adjust their instruction to meet student needs, ensuring that all students are making continuous progress.

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