The Geography Department at Hendon School has worked hard to embed Assessment for Learning into their schemes of work, with impressive results. A Year 10 top set identifies key features in a model 'Rivers' answer, using the GCSE mark scheme, and discuss what makes an A* answer. Then, using a 'Settlement' question, they debate what assessment elements will be in the mark scheme. Answering questions with a genuine mark scheme leads to peer assessment of each other's answers. Using paired work ensures that students know exactly what they need to include in their answers to get a Level 3. The teacher's 'verbal feedback' stamp on their written work reduces marking time for teachers. A Year 8 class, studying population distribution in Australia, works out what makes a 'good' and a 'bad' piece of peer assessment. Working in pairs, they write peer assessment comments with targets giving feedback on the quality of the comments. The lesson ends with whole class self assessment.

Video Series: Secondary Assessment for Learning
Release Date 2006