A mock painting assessment is a wise move for art teachers who wish for a smooth final art assessment. A mock assessment entails drawing up an agreement between the art teacher and pupil to ensure transparency. The agreement might include the following:
- Objective 1: To agree goals with students
- Objective 2: To inform students of their progress
Preparation for Assessment Marking in Art Schools
Such an agreement, which ideally should be put in writing, gives students concrete aims for the end of the painting course module. The mock assessment might also inform the student of artistic development so far and which areas need attention. This gives the student a chance to put things right before the final marking or grading.
Taking such steps prevents nasty surprises or ambiguity regarding assessment marking or even disagreements; after all, few students like obtaining a certain mark without knowing why.
When to Evaluate Artwork
A mock assessment may occur at any time within the last half of the art course; it is really up to the teacher. Whatever the time, the teacher must ensure the rest of the class is engaged on an art activity whilst the teacher conducts the mock assessment. Twenty minutes per pupil is often ideal.
Artistic Goals
Praise firstly. Praise anything the student has done well, achieved in the face of difficulty or demonstrated effort. The following issues may arise during the mock assessment:
- Projects running late
- Items missing
- Work that does not evidence some or any of the criteria set out, such as research work or experimentation
- Multiple absences
The student(s) may agree to complete a project or painting by an allotted time or add creative evidence to enhance the assessment marking. Under special circumstances, the teacher may allow a deadline extension to complete a project.
Tips for Art Teachers for Art Assessing
The agreed goals should be written in front of the student, including areas for concern, predicted marking as things stand, and what the final marking could be. Putting things into black and white serves to clarify what has been discussed and makes the goals more concrete. Unexpected surprises and nasty shocks are then kept in check.
Secrets to a Good Art Assessment
Conducting a mock assessment prior to the final assessment will help prevent shocks or surprises for art students on the day. Drawing up a document setting out areas for concern and projected markings will keep disagreements in check and increase the likelihood of a smooth final assessment when the day arrives.
Rachel Shirley - I have written and illustrated several art instruction books entitled Oil Paintings from your Garden and Oil Paintings from the Landscape ...
