Overview: Assessment Foundations for Adult ESL Instructors 

Through this series, ESL instructors will gain both conceptual understanding and practical tools to design and apply assessments that are valid, fair, and aligned with learning outcomes—ultimately supporting more effective, learner-centered instruction.

Each module in this professional development series follows a consistent and intentional structure that includes clearly defined learning objectives, pre-assessment activities, assigned readings, video and PowerPoint resources, live discussion, post-assessment, and reflective exit ticket questions.

Each module begins with a pre-assessment task, which may take the form of a short quiz or an anticipation guide designed to activate prior knowledge and spark curiosity. Pre-assessment tasks should be completed and submitted via email prior to the start of each module. Participants are then asked to complete a reading assignment prior to the live session, which serves as a foundation for synchronous discussion. (Note: Module 4 is the only module that does not include a pre-assigned reading component.) The live session opens with a group discussion focused on the preparatory material, followed by curated video segments, a PowerPoint presentation, and interactive conversation to deepen participants’ understanding of the module’s theme.

Participants are then placed into breakout rooms for small-group collaboration. Activities in these groups may include completing structured worksheets, designing performance-based assessment tasks, or preparing brief presentations to demonstrate their understanding of the content. Instructors also engage in hands-on practice by developing holistic and analytic rubrics aligned with the tasks they design.

After breakout sessions, participants rejoin the larger group to present their work, exchange ideas, and engage in reflective discussions about their assessment tasks, rubrics, and insights — fostering a collaborative, participatory learning environment. Presentations will be assessed using a holistic rubric that takes into account content understanding, delivery, engagement, and clarity of communication. A copy of the rubric will be provided in advance so participants are aware of the evaluation criteria.

Following these collaborative activities, participants complete a post-assessment, which typically involves revisiting the pre-assessment quiz or responding again to the anticipation guide. This provides an opportunity to reflect on individual growth and reassess understanding. Responses are then reviewed and discussed collectively to reinforce key takeaways.

Each module concludes with a reflection-based exit ticket, inviting participants to articulate what they have learned and how they intend to apply the content in their instructional practice. Exit tickets should be submitted electronically via email, providing a simple and consistent method for participant feedback.