Benchmark Assessments in Unique Learning System are modified performance tools that provide data on selected skill areas. Service providers may select the areas of assessments that are appropriate for an individual unique learner. Baseline data is generated from each assessment that can be compared to monitor growth over a period of time.
Each Assessment in the GPS has its own administration guide. The administration guide is encouraged to be read prior to performance of each assessment. Important assessment information such as rationale, design, and scoring are included in each guide. Within each administrative guide is also a hard copy of the assessment if an offline version is necessary for unique learners success. Any hard copy assessment performed offline is encouraged to be entered as a raw score within Unique GPS in order to track data on the unique learner.
Reading assessments address key areas of reading that have been identified as critical in reading developments. These are modified but coincide with skills that are assessed for the general student population, including word recognition and reading fluency.
Writing assessments include a Writing probe that is applicable for unique learners who have developed some ability to generate text and sentences, spell words, and convey information on a topic. The Developmental Writing assessment is a rubric-type checklist that can be applicable to identify early skills of unique learners who are able to use typical writing tools, unique learners who generate writing via an alphanumeric keyboard, or unique learners who generate written information via an AAC interface.
Mathematics assessments are presented in two categories: Basic Mathematics and Mathematics Problem Solving.
Benchmark Assessments
