ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 6 /EMWNews/ -- Assessing Science

Learning: Perspectives From Research and Practice uses researched-based

information to illustrate the strong link between assessment and improved

student science learning. Compiled by distinguished science educators and

researchers, this 22-chapter volume of essays for K-12 teachers,

researchers, practitioners, and policy makers invites reflection on

assessment practices and priorities and considers a variety of productive

strategies and frameworks.



    In addressing assessment as a central element of teaching practice,

Assessing Science Learning explores the various forms assessment can take,

including student journal entries, lab reports, observations of students

engaged in activities, whole-class discussions, and large annual tests. In

a perfect world, assessment for accountability and assessment for student

learning would align and reinforce each other. This book uses these

research-based insights to help teachers bring together different

assessment priorities and purposes in ways that support student learning.

    About the Editors



    Janet Coffey is on the faculty of the Department of Curriculum and

Instruction in the College of Education, University of Maryland, College

Park. Coffey previously taught middle school science, worked with teachers

in assessment-centered professional development, and worked as a staff

member on the development of the National Science Education Standards.



    Rowena Douglas is assistant executive director for professional

development with NSTA, where she works to develop and implement a

broad-based professional development component across all NSTA programs and

products.



    Carole Stearns is a science education consultant based in Portland,

Ore. Formerly a program officer at the National Science Foundation, she

worked on initiatives serving K-12 teachers of science.



    You can browse sample pages of this new book free at the NSTA Science

Store website at http://www.nsta.org/store.



    For additional information or to purchase Assessing Science Learning:

Perspectives From Research and Practice and other books from NSTA Press,

visit the NSTA Science Store at http://www.nsta.org/store. To order by

phone, call 800-277-5300 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET weekdays. Outside the

United States and Canada, call 301-638-0200. The 488-page book is priced at

$34.94 and discount-priced for NSTA members at $27.96. Take advantage of a

10% discount on both prices through August 22 (Stock # PB219X, ISBN #

978-1-93353-140-3).



    The Arlington, Va.-based National Science Teachers Association is the

largest professional organization in the world promoting excellence and

innovation in science teaching and learning for all. NSTA's current

membership includes more than 55,000 science teachers, science supervisors,

administrators, scientists, business and industry representatives, and

others involved in science education.



    NSTA Press produces 15-20 new books each year. Focused on the Pre

K-college market and specifically aimed at teachers of science, NSTA Press

titles offer a unique blend of accurate scientific content and sound

teaching strategies.