If teachers express that there is too much focus on standardized assessments, what would be a good example of an authentic assessment?

Focusing on teachers' concerns regarding an overemphasis on standardized assessments, an authentic assessment is one that allows students to demonstrate their learning in meaningful ways that reflect real-world tasks. Projects, essays, or performances chosen by students enable this type of assessment because they engage learners in creative and applied processes where they can showcase their understanding and skills.

When students have the opportunity to select their projects or essays, they not only reflect their interests and strengths but also apply their knowledge in a context that is relevant to them. This choice fosters engagement, encourages critical thinking, and allows educators to evaluate students on a deeper level than what traditional standardized assessments often provide. By engaging with material actively and personally, students can produce work that illustrates their learning in a more holistic manner.

In contrast, other forms of assessment listed, such as benchmark tests or oral examinations, do not offer the same level of individualized expression or authentic engagement with the material. Benchmark tests particularly still align closely with standardized assessment practices and often limit student expression to pre-defined formats. Thus, the selection of student-chosen projects, essays, or performances stands out as an ideal example of authentic assessment, focusing on deeper learning outcomes.