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Student Self-Assessment

Student Checklist

In the past, teachers did all of the writing assessment, but now we recognize that students who learn to assess writing become better writers. They discover the difference between writing that works and writing that doesn't. They also learn to take responsibility for their own revising.

To become effective assessors, students can . . .

  • learn about the qualities of effective writing.
  • use the qualities to evaluate their own work.
  • use the qualities to respond to the writing of their peers.
  • compile a portfolio of their work.
  • assess and discuss written work that you share with the class.

A Community of Writers

Having students become assessors of writing also helps create a writing community in your classroom. Writers need to talk with other writers. They need to know that other writers are available to help. That’s why it’s important that your students share their work throughout the writing process. They need fellow writers to offer encouragement, ask questions, and make suggestions. For more on small-group conferences and peer conferencing, see "Assessing Student Writing."

Evaluations Throughout the Process

Students can perform formative evaluations throughout the writing process on their own work and the work of peers: