We need to know what students can really do. In asynchronous online classes, this challenge is especially acute. For face-to-face teachers, these principles apply even more easily through blue books and in-class assessments. These strategies help:
1. Proctored, Timed Assessments
Timed assessments reveal students’ true capabilities. While online proctoring can be gamed, I’ve found it highly effective when combined with strategy #2.
2. Establish Language Baselines
Get a sense of each student’s authentic voice early. When you see dramatic shifts in language quality—especially in timed settings—you’ll recognize it.
Two baseline strategies:
- Video introductions (early assignment): Students share their major, hobbies, and course expectations. This builds community while revealing their natural speaking style.
- Proctored free-write (before high-stakes assessments): Students write continuously without revision in the proctor. This lets them practice both freewriting and the proctoring tool, while giving you their unfiltered writing voice.