A concise science assessment text that helps K-12 teachers master the effective science assessment methods that lead to improved student learning Presenting both traditional and innovative assessment methods integral to science teaching and learning, Essentials of Science Classroom Assessment shows teachers the connection between effective science assessment and improved student learning. The text uses a competence-based approach consistent with the National Science Education Standards to help teachers master assessment skills, apply them to science classroom instruction, and evaluate their impact on student learning. Key Features and BenefitsProvides practical examples from both elementary and secondary science classrooms to demonstrate how to design a wide variety of traditional and innovative assessment methodsPresents case scenarios in each chapter that help teachers reflect on the assessment issues they will encounter in their own classrooms Includes end-of-chapter checklists and practice questions that allow readers to check their mastery of assessment skills before moving on, as well as annotated bibliographies that direct them to additional readings on topics of interest The Web-based Student study site at www.sagepub.com/liustudy provides electronic flashcards, practice quizzes, alternative assessment tasks, additional Web resources, and abstracts identifying more than forty common K-12 student preconceptions of science topics.