Monitoring Student Performance

Proving to students that they are improving has always been a challenge for teachers and schools. However, there are ways to tackle this age old problem.

Entrance Tests

Before starting a course, students should take a short placement test to discover their level. However this kind of test is limited and to test productive skills we recommend students complete a short essay before arrival. Feedback can be given during induction on the first day. To complete the entrance tests, students should take a five minute speaking test and be given feedback on their ability at the start of their course.

Regular Testing

Whether it is weekly or fortnightly, regular progress tests and tutorials need to happen and the results stored for both teacher and student to refer to. This is also a vital opportunity for students to tell teachers how they feel about their classes and for the school to respond to changing needs.

Remember: your feedback matters!

Exit Tests

If possible, it is a great idea for students to do quick grammar, writing and speaking tests at the end of the course. This allows quick and simple comparison with the tests done at the beginning of the course. If all goes well, we should be able to prove to our students how much they have improved!

At ELA-Edinburgh we employ all of these tactics to give our students the best possible service. Judging from our happy students, it seems to be working!