Defining Evaluation Skills

Evaluation questions measure the student’s ability to judge information based on a set of criteria. The criteria may be either provided as part of the test or assumed.

Evaluation questions generally require students to

• Compare and contrast among ideas presented
• Determine the value of theories or evidence presented in a text or graphic
• Make decisions based on sound reasons
• Recognize that values play a role in beliefs and decision making
• Identify fallacies in arguments

In Social Studies, evaluation items require students to

• Assess whether information is appropriate to substantiate conclusions or generalizations
• Assess the accuracy of facts presented in text or a graphic
• Compare and contrast different accounts of the same event
• Recognize the roles that values, beliefs, and personal convictions play in decision making

In Science, evaluation items require students to

• Determine the validity of evidence and explanations provided in text and/or graphics
• Evaluate and make decisions about science in personal and social issues