Summative Assessment
Summative assessment is essential for evaluating student progress and providing a measure of learning and development at the end of a project. I strongly believe in the importance of self-evaluation and self-reflection alongside summative feedback, as this encourages students to take ownership of their learning. In promoting holistic development, I aim to foster self-directed students who feel a sense of agency in their educational journey. For both Junior and Senior Cycle students, I tailor these approaches to their developmental needs, offering clear, constructive feedback that highlights strengths and guides further growth. This combination helps students
reflect on their progress and continue improving.
Junior Cycle Banded Success Criteria
In line with the Junior Cycle assessments, I use banded success criteria for summative assessments. On one page, students can compare the different descriptors of quality, making it easily accessible for students to gauge where they can improve. I also ensure to follow the medal and mission approach, highlighting where students did well and where and how they can improve going forward.
​
The self-evaluation relates to the specific criteria of our project, the self-reflection focuses on personal enjoyment, challenges and approaches to challenges during the project. Additionally, students have the opportunity to reflect on their personal development, aligning with Junior Cycle Key Skills such as 'working with others' or 'managing myself'.
Senior Cycle Banded Success Criteria
For Senior Cycle, a detailed assessment rubric and success criteria are provided ahead of the summative assessment. At this age, students are better equipped to manage their sketchbooks and learning, and can cross-check their progress against the success criteria, identifying areas for improvement before the final assessment. Summative feedback is directly aligned with the rubric, with areas for development underlined and explained in comments. It is essential to maintain a positive tone, celebrating successes alongside constructive feedback, ensuring students have the clarity needed to make progress moving forward.
Before receiving summative feedback, students engage in self-evaluation and reflection on both their sketchbook and final work. This practice is vital in fostering resilient, confident, and autonomous students who feel empowered to take control of their learning in Art.
