Authentic Assessment

Target Standard

11-12R8: Delineate and evaluate an argument in applicable texts, applying a lens (e.g., constitutional principles, logical fallacy, legal reasoning, belief systems, codes of ethics, philosophies, etc.) to assess the validity or fallacy of key arguments, determining whether the supporting evidence is relevant and sufficient.

Authentic Task

Students will choose a current editorial, op-ed, or persuasive article (digital or print) and:

1. Identify the author's central argument.
2. Apply a critical lens (e.g., constitutional principle or code of ethics).
3. Evaluate the validity of the argument and the sufficiency/relevance of its evidence.
4. Present their analysis in the form of a collaborative multimedia blog post or podcast episode hosted on an educational blogging platform like Padlet, Wakelet, or Edublogs.

Online Technology Tools

• Edublogs or Google Sites: For hosting student blog posts.
• Loom or Flip: For students to record video reflections on their evaluation process.
• Google Docs: For drafting and peer feedback.
• Padlet: For sharing articles, lenses, and responses in one collaborative space.

Formative Assessment Features

Student choice in articles and lenses increases authenticity and engagement.

• Peer feedback loop using guided prompts (e.g., "Is the lens applied logically?" or "Is the evidence analysis clear and thorough?").
• Teacher feedback using a rubric focused on clarity of argument, effectiveness of lens application, evaluation of evidence, and communication.