How Do I Assess What Should be Assessed?

This was a really interesting unit to work on for me. I had the opportunity to explore a small portion of the CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program). I had never had the occasion to look at this type of assessment tool. It really showed me the importance of connecting what is being taught in the class to what a student might need to do, outside of the classroom, to demonstrate their learning. I don't really consider this teaching to the test, rather giving them the opportunity to practice the skills that they would need to have in order to successfully complete the test. Is that a case of a rose by any other name? I don't think so. I think that the test prepares students to achieve their goals outside of the classroom. If they can demonstrate their learning within the parameters of the test they should be able to apply those skills in the real-world. My job as a teacher is to provide them with those opportunities to practice in a safe environment, which would include some real-life tasks.