Using diagnostic tests in science as formative assessment to enhance teaching and learning

高中和大学科学课程的成功和延续取决于初中科学教育的基础改进。该提案旨在通过培养科学人才，鼓励更多的学生以有意义的方式学习和享受科学，来解决这一全国性的问题。通过有计划的形成性评估，教师会让8-10年级的学生思考科学概念，并考虑不同的解释，而不是为了测试或考试而记忆基本的事实，然后忘记。实际的好处是广泛的有效和可靠的测试和一系列的教学方法来诊断学生的学习困难。

The success and continuation of science programs in upper secondary school and university is dependent on foundational improvements in science education in lower secondary schools. This proposal is designed to address this national concern by fostering talent in science and encouraging more students to study and enjoy science in a meaningful way. Through planned formative assessment, teachers will enable students in Years 8-10 to think about the science concepts and consider alternative explanations rather than memorise basic facts for a test or examination which are then forgotten. Practical benefits are a large range of valid and reliable tests and a range of teaching approaches for diagnosing student learning difficulties.