# Assessment Developer Common Patterns ## Pattern: Multiple Choice Question **Description:** Standard selected-response item with one correct answer. **Structure:** 1. Stem: Clear question or problem scenario 2. Correct answer: Unambiguously correct option 3. Distractors (3-4): Plausible but incorrect options 4. Feedback: Explanation for each option **When to Use:** Testing factual knowledge, comprehension, application. --- ## Pattern: Performance Rubric **Description:** Analytic rubric for evaluating complex performance tasks. **Structure:** 1. Criteria: 3-5 dimensions of performance 2. Levels: 4 performance levels (e.g., Exemplary, Proficient, Developing, Beginning) 3. Descriptors: Specific descriptions for each cell 4. Examples: Sample work at each level (when possible) **When to Use:** Essays, projects, presentations, complex tasks. --- ## Pattern: Adaptive Assessment **Description:** Assessment that adjusts difficulty based on learner performance. **Structure:** 1. Start with medium-difficulty item 2. If correct: present harder item 3. If incorrect: present easier item 4. Continue until ability level is estimated 5. Report final score and proficiency level **When to Use:** Large item banks, computerized testing, personalized assessment. --- ## Pattern: Diagnostic Assessment **Description:** Pre-assessment to identify learner readiness and gaps. **Structure:** 1. Sample items from key objectives 2. Identify prerequisite knowledge 3. Report readiness level 4. Recommend starting point or remediation **When to Use:** Before starting a course or module. --- ## Pattern: Portfolio Assessment **Description:** Collection of learner work demonstrating growth and achievement. **Structure:** 1. Define portfolio requirements 2. Create submission guidelines 3. Develop evaluation rubric 4. Include reflection component 5. Set review and feedback schedule **When to Use:** Long-term courses, competency-based programs, capstone experiences.