Rigor: Assessment Item Sort

A simple activity that sparks conversation and reflection on how current classroom expectations align with the Depth of Knowledge framework.

Teachers work collaboratively to analyze and sort items by DOK level.

What is it?

• A collaborative 30 minute activity that can be done in groups of 2 to 4.
• Warmup: groups sort model assessment items by DOK level.
• Application: Groups sort 4 – 8 assessment items taken from their own lessons.
• Evaluation: Groups reflect on trends and implications for current classroom expectations.

When to use this?

• Classroom observations and walkthroughs demonstrate that the majority of instruction is at lower levels of rigor (i.e. DOK 1 and 2).
• Educators have an introductory level of understanding Depth of Knowledge Framework.

How was this DESIGNED for ACTION?

In case you missed it, check out our post on The 4 Principles of Designing Actionable Professional Development.

Principle 2: Experience (including mistakes) provides the basis for the learning activities.

• Educators get to make mistakes in their sorting or analysis and learn from each other in a low stakes environment.

Principle 3: Adults are most interested in learning subjects that have immediate relevance and impact to their job or personal life.

• Items are taken directly from their own curriculum, lessons, and context. There is an opportunity to reflect directly on their own practice and that of their peers.

Principle 4: Adult learning is problem-centered rather than content-oriented.

• Teachers are given a problem to work through (sorting and analyzing items from their own instruction) rather than passively “sitting-and-getting” an explanation about DOK levels.

Get the resources!

The following resources are available for download from our Google Drive folder.

• DOK posters that groups can use to sort items and use as a reference (we didn’t create these but they are our favorite ones).
• Sample assessment items: reading and math (Goalbook Pathways is a great place to find sample assessment items at different levels of rigor).
• Authentic assessment items from lessons teachers have taught or are planning to teach.

Let us know what you think …

We’d love to get your thoughts about this activity using our Feedback Form.

It’s free to join!