How do you design a RAFT assignment that engages and challenges your students?

2 Why use RAFT assignments?

RAFT assignments can be beneficial for both teachers and students, as they engage students' interest and motivation by giving them autonomy and voice. Additionally, this type of assignment can challenge students' thinking and creativity, as it requires them to consider different perspectives and formats. RAFT assignments also allow for differentiated instruction, as students are able to work at their own level and pace, as well as choose the options that suit their strengths and preferences. Furthermore, this type of assignment can support students' literacy and communication skills by exposing them to various genres, modes, and audiences. Finally, RAFT assignments provide an opportunity to assess students' understanding and learning by requiring them to apply their knowledge and demonstrate their comprehension of the topic.

3 How to design a RAFT assignment?

Designing a RAFT assignment is an important process that requires planning and preparation. To begin, identify the learning objectives and standards for the unit or lesson. Then, choose a topic that is relevant, meaningful, and engaging for your students. Brainstorm possible roles, audiences, formats, and topics for the assignment, and write them down on a chart or grid. Select the options that are appropriate, feasible, and varied for your students, and eliminate the ones that are not. Create a rubric or checklist that specifies the criteria and expectations for the assignment such as content, organization, style, grammar, and mechanics. Provide examples and models of different RAFT options to discuss with your students. Give them the RAFT chart or grid to let them choose their options. Allow time, space, and resources for them to work on their assignment while offering feedback and guidance as needed. Finally, collect and evaluate their work using the rubric or checklist.

4 What are SAVI rubrics?

SAVI rubrics are a tool for assessing RAFT assignments, which consist of Situation, Audience, Voice, and Ideas. The corresponding rubrics measure how well the student has addressed each element. The Situation rubric assesses the context and purpose of the writing task, such as the role, time, place, and event. The Audience rubric evaluates the student's consideration and adaptation to the needs and expectations of the intended audience, such as the tone, language, and format. The Voice rubric judges how well the student has expressed their personality and perspective through the writing, such as the attitude, emotion, and point of view. Lastly, the Ideas rubric evaluates how well the student has developed and supported the main idea or message of the writing, such as the clarity, coherence, and evidence. Each rubric is composed of four levels of performance: Exemplary, Proficient, Developing, and Emerging. A teacher can use these rubrics to give feedback and grades to students and identify their strengths or areas for improvement.

5 How to use SAVI rubrics?

Using SAVI rubrics can help you to evaluate your students' RAFT assignments more effectively and consistently. Before giving the assignment, be sure to review the rubrics and understand the criteria and expectations for each element. Share them with your students and provide examples and models of different levels of performance for each element. Use the rubrics as a guide when reading and grading your students' work, and provide specific and constructive feedback based on the rubrics. Encourage your students to use the rubrics as a self-assessment tool, and to set goals for their next RAFT assignment.