In 2010-2011, Fairfax County Public Schools will undertake for the first time a program assessment in fine arts at the sixth grade level. The sixth grade is the last time that students are required to have music and art instruction. At the middle school and high school levels, the arts are elective course offerings. These assessments are in response to School Board Strategic Goal 1.3, that all students will explore, understand, and value the fine arts.
What is unique about these art and music assessments at the sixth grade level is that they will engage all sixth grade students in real-life, authentic challenges to which the students will respond with their cumulative knowledge, skills, problem solving ability, and creativity. Results from these student products and performances will be used not to grade students, nor to direct their coursework or career paths, but rather to direct teachers and Instructional Services in new emphases and priorities within the elementary art and music Program of Studies that will aide all students in being successful in alignment with 21st Century Skills and aptitudes. These 21st Century Skills include: creativity and innovation skills; critical thinking and problem solving skills; communication and collaboration skills; and life and career skills such as flexibility and adaptability, initiative and self-direction, social and cross-cultural skills, productivity and accountability, and leadership and responsibility. Therefore, these assessments are designed to emphasize and capture deep understanding rather than shallow knowledge, and actively engage students in solving meaningful problems.
In a climate of high stakes student testing, these art and music program assessments provide a purposefully opposite direction and intention. Therefore, the attached Q & A is presented to assist administrators, teachers, parents, and students in understanding what these assessments are, and what they are not.
For further information, please contact Roger Tomhave, Fine Arts Coordinator.
Assessment Q and A |
