The 5E lesson cycle originally developed by BSCS has become a popular method for elementary and middle school teachers. Traditionally, assessment has been assigned to the end of the lesson---during the final E (evaluation) stage. Abell and Volkmann, however, make a strong case for integrating assessment throughout all five stages of the lesson. Through clear and concise suggestions, coupled with vignettes of classroom teachers sharing their success stories, the authors present a promising approach to implementing assessment strategies as prescribed by the National Science Education Standards.
Seamless Assessment begins with two chapters describing the concept and the 5E model. The next three chapters provide concrete examples (with samples of student work) in life, Earth, and physical science, divided into primary (grades 1-3), intermediate (grades 4-5), and middle (grades 6-8) levels. An appendix presents teachers with online resources for further reading.
Seamless Assessment is one of the most comprehensive and practical “how-to” books linking the 5E lesson cycle and assessment available today. It is a valuable resource for individual teachers, pre-service education courses, or summer professional development institutes whenever the topic of assessment is presented.