Checklists
At a Glance
- Time: 2-3 minutes
- Prep: Minimal (create checklist)
- Group: Individual
- Setting: Any
- Subjects: Universal
- Energy: Low
Purpose
Activate prior knowledge and provide differentiation data by having students rate their current understanding/confidence for each upcoming unit concept before instruction begins.
How It Works
- Distribute checklist (30 sec) - Give list of key concepts/skills for upcoming unit
- Self-assess (2 min) - Students rate each: "I know this well," "I've heard of it," "This is new"
- Teacher collects (30 sec) - Use data to differentiate instruction and group students
What to Say
Opening: "Here are the 8 key concepts we'll cover this unit. For each, mark: Green='I know this well,' Yellow='I've heard of it,' Red='This is new to me.' Be honest—this helps me teach better." During: "No judgments—everyone starts somewhere... Rate YOUR current knowledge... This tells you what to focus on." Closing: "Turn these in. I'll use them to group you effectively and know what we can move through quickly versus what needs more time."
Why It Works
Pre-assessment activates relevant prior knowledge, helps students set learning goals, and gives teacher data for differentiation before wasting time teaching what students already know.
Research Connection: Pre-assessment and goal-setting improve learning outcomes (Marzano, 2006; Hattie & Timperley, 2007).
Teacher Tip
Use color coding (green/yellow/red) or confidence scales (1-5). Make it quick and visual. Return checklists at unit end for students to see growth.
Variations
Rating scales: Know/heard/new; 1-5 confidence; can teach it/understand it/learning it/new • Timing: Unit start (planning) or end (progress tracking) • Ages: K-5: 3 colors; 6-12: standard scales; College: detailed competency ratings
Online
Google Form with checkboxes or dropdowns. Instant data visualization for teacher; students get copy emailed.
Troubleshooting
Students overestimate knowledge: "I'll randomly call on 'green' raters to explain concepts tomorrow—be honest!"
Extension
Revisit checklist at unit end. Students re-rate and write reflection on growth: "I moved from red to green on X..."
Related: KWL Chart, Traffic Light Self-Assessment