Chapter 6: Assessment For Learning In Saskatchewan Mathematics Classes

As the phrase assessment for learning (AFL) is used more and more in Saskatchewan, some math teachers find themselves wondering how their practice conforms to its precepts, if they are behind the times and if their practice is to be found wanting. In some people’s minds, AFL seems to be better suited to the humanities or perhaps even the sciences, but doesn’t fit well with mathematics. This article looks at what I believe to be the practice of many math teachers in the province and compares that practice to the precepts of AFL. I am confident that math teachers have many teaching practices that follow AFL recommendations and that AFL is suited to student improvement in mathematics. There are areas of change to be addressed, but math teachers are well positioned with regard to AFL.