Constructed Response Assessment (KSP 619)

Discuss the advantageous and disadvantages of completion and essay items

• show us an example of each

Example of a completion problem in Algebra 1.  In Algebra, completion problems are what I consider to be an excellent way of assessing a student compared to multiple choice questions


Q: Solve the system by any method.   {2x + y = 11   {x + 3y = 18.
A: (3 , 5)

Advantages of Completion problem:
       1)  Student gets to showcase their knowledge
       2)  Student learn how to think critically about a math situation.
       3)  As a teacher, it easily shows me which students get it or don't get it.
       4)  Students are graded on their work and the process of getting to the answer.
Disadvantages of Completion problem.
       1)  One problem can take up to 10 minutes, so can not have many on a test.
       2)  The problem may have to much work and focus on too many ideas instead of one focal point.


Essay questions in math need to be worded properly.  I'll be using a comparison question of differentiating the uses of 'substitution' versus 'elimination'.

Q:  When is it advantageous to use substitution to solve a system compared to using elimination? When is it advantageous to use elimination to solve a system compared to using substitution?   Give an example of a system that you would use substitution and a system you could use elimination.
A:  possible answer - It is useful to use substitution to solve a system when the system is solved for a variable.  It is useful to use elimination when the terms are aligned in the two equations by columns and you can manipulate an equation to eliminate one of the variables.

My criteria for this question would be that the students write the following:
        1) Mention use substitution when system solved for variable.
        2) Mention use elimination if the system's terms are aligned in columns.
        3) Mention manipulation of an equation in elimination.
        4) Provide an example of a system that is substitution ready.
        5) Provide an example of a system that is elimination ready.

Advantages of an essay question in Algebra.
        1) Students need to comprehend the vocabulary.
        2) Students speak their knowledge through their writing.
        3) Teachers can connect written responses with math. :o!  (Most students don't relate words with math.)
        4) Rubric makes the question have a set of responses I am looking for.
Disadvantages of an essay question in Algebra.
        1) Students may answer very vaguely.
        2) Can only have 1 or 2 essay items due to time.
        3) For the amount of time it takes to answer, not as many ideas or topics can be covered.