Formative assessment in PE is an effective educational approach focused on optimising student learning during physical education activities.
Understanding Formative Assessment in PE
Based on educational research, formative assessment (FA) is recognised as an effective educational approach for optimising student learning. Within the context of physical education (PE), it is considered a promising avenue for assessment. Unlike summative assessment, which evaluates learning after instruction, formative assessment occurs *during** instruction to guide both teaching and learning.
The Purpose: Optimising Learning
The core goal of formative assessment in PE is directly tied to optimising student learning. This means using ongoing assessment methods to:
- Identify students' strengths and areas for improvement in real-time.
- Provide timely and specific feedback that helps students understand how to get better.
- Allow teachers to adjust their lessons and teaching strategies based on student progress and needs.
- Empower students to take ownership of their learning through self-reflection.
How it Works in Practice
Formative assessment in PE isn't typically about paper tests or formal grades. It's embedded into the activity itself and focuses on observing and interacting with students as they move, practice skills, and engage with concepts.
Here are some common ways formative assessment looks in a PE class:
- Teacher Observation & Feedback: A teacher watches a student performing a jump shot and provides immediate verbal cues ("Bend your knees more," "Follow through with your hand").
- Peer Assessment: Students working in pairs observe each other's technique during a dance sequence and give feedback using a simple checklist.
- Self-Assessment: After practicing a new skill, students reflect on their performance using guiding questions provided by the teacher ("What did you do well?", "What can you improve for next time?").
- Checklists or Rubrics: Simple criteria provided to students or used by the teacher during an activity to quickly identify mastery or areas needing work on specific skills or behaviors.
- Quick Demonstrations: Students demonstrate a specific part of a skill to show their understanding.
Challenges in Implementation
Despite its potential benefits for optimising learning, implementing formative assessment effectively in PE can be a complex and demanding task for teachers. One significant challenge is that many in-service PE teachers often lack formal training on this topic. This can make it difficult to integrate consistent, high-quality formative assessment practices into daily lessons.
However, with appropriate training and support, formative assessment can become a powerful tool for enhancing student engagement, skill development, and understanding in physical education.
