Abstract+Reflection



====This assignment was challenging because our access to working technology (laptops) has dwindled. We previously had two computer labs, but one has been disconnected from the Internet and the other is fully scheduled with other classes. This was the reason behind giving the assessment via a PowerPoint presentation. I began the lesson having students take the PowerPoint quiz followed by a whole-class presentation and discussion. I presented the PowerPoint which contained instructional slides and the assessment.====

====After taking the pre-test, most students were not sure how to identify the different substances as elements, compounds and mixtures. Once the presentation and discussion began, students began to ask about common substances and whether they were elements, compounds or mixtures. The students identified some of the characteristics of elements and compounds. The slide with the comparison chart was very helpful in defining the differences. In the presentation, common and ordinary substances were discussed and identified.====

====This assessment precedes an experiment on chemical and physical changes. We will be talking about compounds and elements involved in these changes. It is necessary to understand the difference between elements and compounds when studying chemical reactions during which matter is neither created nor destroyed.====

====Using the same assessment as a pre-test and post-test allowed me to compile data showing an improvement in achievement. Although this data is helpful and serves as documentation of the students’ work, I am able to gain a better understanding of a student’s grasp of the subject during ordinary conversations during class. I would have preferred to use another assessment method, such as Socrative or clickers, to speed the collection and analysis of data. Other methods would also have given students some instant feedback on their choices to the assessment questions. However, these methods were not easily available to me. I hope to address this at my school.====