Writing As An Assessment And Learning Tool

Writing has long been established as a valuable strategy for learning within many disciplines. A unique writing strategy, called a "folder activity," has been developed for use with introductory physics students at American University. The folder activity has proven to be a successful and effective learning tool for students for many reasons. For example, students are often able to uncover their misconceptions through this writing activity very early in the course. This early uncovering challenges students to confront and deal with their misconceptions. Unfortunately, many learning strategies do not give students an opportunity for early detection of potential problems in their understanding. The folder activities, however, provide students with a non-threatening vehicle through which they can deal with their misconceptions, before they take a major quiz or exam. This paper will focus on the utility and function of the folder activity as a learning tool. In addition, the specific elements of the folder activity will be described and samples of students' writings will be shared. Finally, role of the folder activity as an assessment tool will be outlined.