There are several ways to gauge your child’s progress and understanding:
- Self-Grading Quizzes: Each lesson includes a built-in, self-grading quiz. These quizzes help students identify areas where they might need further review and provide immediate feedback. While not a formal grade, they are an excellent tool for self-assessment.
- Worksheets: The downloadable worksheets offer another opportunity for your child to apply what they’ve learned. Reviewing their completed worksheets can give you valuable insight into their understanding of the material. Pay less attention to right/wrong answers and more attention to their reasoning.
- “Ask Dr. Robin”: The questions your child asks (or doesn’t ask!) can be very telling. Encourage them to ask questions about anything they are struggling with or curious about.
- Open-Ended Questions: The best way to assess true understanding is to ask open-ended questions that require your child to explain concepts in their own words and apply their knowledge. (See the FAQ “Want to gauge your child’s understanding of Every Body’s Human Biology?” for example questions.)
- Quizlet: Quizlet can be used in a variety of ways to assess learning. Parents can use Quizlet to create their own tests or utilize the platform’s learning games to gauge their child’s understanding of key terms and concepts.
- Discussions: Engage in regular discussions with your child about what they’re learning. This provides a valuable opportunity to assess their understanding and identify any areas where they might need additional support.
- Focus on the “Why”: Instead of focusing solely on right or wrong answers, focus on your child’s ability to explain the why behind the concepts. Can they explain how things work and why they are important?
- Progress over Time: Look for progress and growth over time. Is your child demonstrating a deeper understanding of the material? Are they able to apply their knowledge to new situations? These are more important indicators of learning than a specific grade.
- Nurse Jill’s Support: Nurse Jill is available to help you with everything from how to use the program with your child to understanding the science behind the program. She can also help you brainstorm ways to make it work best for your family’s unique needs.
Dr. Robin’s School aims to foster a love of learning and a deep understanding of human biology, not just the memorization of facts. By focusing on understanding and application, you can help your child develop a solid foundation in science that will benefit them for years to come.
