These elementary assessment plans, developed and taught by teachers in the USA, incorporate a wide variety of learner-centered assessment strategies. They have not been adapted for South Africa, so that it is possible to see how the original project aligns to its assessment plan.

Dangerous Animals: How do we know what is real and what is make believe?
Grade 2, Language, General Science, Life Orientation
Would you treat a sick lion? After reading a book about a mouse that is asked to treat a fox with a toothache, foundation phase learners connect the themes in the book to their own lives. They define the characteristics of dangerous animals, think about the importance of going to the dentist, and present their ideas about whether the mouse was justified in refusing to treat “dangerous animals”.

Biographies: Everybody Has a Story: How are we all unique?
Grades 3-5, Language
Intermediate phase learners read biographies of famous people and learn about what makes a good biography. They interview residents of a local nursing home and put together a magazine with their stories. At a final celebration, they share their magazines with the people they interviewed.

Fraction Quest: Does accuracy really matter that much?
Grades 3-5, Maths
Learners take on the roles of professionals who use fractions on the job. After researching, they create and share presentations that demonstrate the importance of knowing fractions in their chosen professions.

Storm Watch: How do people respond to change?
Grades 4-6, General Science, Maths, Language
Learners become weather forecasters to report on weather conditions around the globe after conducting research and scientific investigations about weather phenomena.