Multiple Methods of Assessment

What is a Performance Task?

A performance task is a complex scenario that provides students an opportunity to demonstrate what they know and are able to do concerning a given concept. The components of the framework for the performance task are outlines in the acronym GRASPS. The goal states the purpose of the task; the role explains student involvement in the scenario; the audience identifies the people the students address; the situation explains the scenario; the product is the tangible evidence of student understanding; and the standards/criteria describe how students can complete the task successfully.

GRASPS:

GOAL:
Provide a statement of the task.
Establish the goal, problem, challenge, or obstacle in the task.

ROLE:
Define the role of the students in the task.
State the job of the students for the task.

AUDIENCE:
Identify the target audience within the context of the scenario.
Example audiences might include a client or committee.

SITUATION:
Set the context of the scenario.
Explain the situation.

PRODUCT:
Clarify what the students will create and why they will create it.

STANDARDS and CRITERIA [INDICATORS]:
Provide students with a clear picture of success.
Identify specific standards for success.
Issue rubrics to the students or develop them with the students.