Assessment Timeline

Before project work begins

Students work on projects and complete tasks

After project work is completed

Prior Knowledge Questioning

Science Journal Example Rating Rubric

Science Journal Timeline Handout Evidence Rubric Collaboration Observation Checklist

Collaboration Self-Assessment Rubric Multimedia Presentation Rubric Grand Jury Presentation Rubric

Multimedia Presentation Rubric Grand Jury Presentation Rubric

Journal Content Quiz

Determine students’ initial understanding of the components of effective argumentation through a discussion of the claims made in contemporary media and through writing in their science journals. Continue using the journals throughout the unit to assess students’ understanding of chemistry content and the process of argumentation. Use the timeline handout to informally check students’ organization and information tracking. Use the example rating rubric to explain the criteria for evaluating evidence and the evidence rubric to help students assess their progress as they perform the various parts of the project.

When students begin working on the project in teams, distribute the multimedia presentation rubric to guide the creation of their presentations. In addition, explain that group process skills are assessed using the collaboration observation checklist and that they use the collaboration self-assessment rubric to assess their individual and group performance at the end of the project. When students plan their presentation of their findings to the grand jury, provide the grand jury presentation rubric to help them prepare effectively.

After the presentations to the grand jury, students reflect on any information they heard that influenced their opinions about the cause of the family’s illness. When the project is completed, the content quiz, the multimedia presentation rubric, and the grand jury presentation rubric are used to assess students’ performances, products, and knowledge.


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