Cupcake Assessment

We never would have thought of using cupcakes as an assessment tool, but it's rather brilliant and Mrs. Patton over at Mrs. Patton's Patch does a great job of showing how to integrate this idea in the classroom.

Mrs. Patton collects 4 photos - one of a cupcake liner, one of a cupcake without icing, one of a cupcake with icing, and one of a cupcake with both icing and sprinkles - and uses them to represent quality of work, understanding, and behavior when tackling a new topic. For instance, students performing at the "cupcake liner" level do not demonstrate an understanding of what they're supposed to be doing and are generally off task. On the opposite end of the scale, a student performing at the "cupcake with icing and sprinkles" level has a clear understanding of the material, stays on task, and actually attempts to perform above and beyond expectations.

We think this is a fabulous way to let students know what is expected of them because all students understand that it's better to have a cupcake with icing and sprinkles than an empty cupcake liner. In essence, it brings the issue to their level. Additionally, it provides them with a sense of responsibility {knowing they can directly affect which performance level they are assessed at}, as well as an opportunity to be a part of the assessment process/self-assess.

For a better description of the various cupcake levels and ideas on incorporating this form of assessment in the classroom, be sure to head over to Mrs. Patton's Patch.