How can you assess ESL student progress and adjust instruction?

1 Formative assessment

Formative assessment is the ongoing process of collecting and analyzing information about your students' learning during instruction. It helps you identify their strengths, weaknesses, needs, and interests, and provides feedback to guide their learning. You can use various formative assessment techniques, such as quizzes, surveys, journals, portfolios, self-assessment, peer assessment, and observation. You can also use online tools, such as Kahoot, Quizlet, Google Forms, or Padlet, to create interactive and engaging formative assessments.

3 Diagnostic assessment

Diagnostic assessment is the process of identifying your students' prior knowledge, skills, and abilities before starting a new unit, course, or program. It helps you determine their readiness and gaps, and plan your instruction accordingly. You can use various diagnostic assessment methods, such as pre-tests, interviews, questionnaires, or diagnostic tasks. You can also use online tools, such as Duolingo, Cambridge English Placement Test, or Oxford Online Placement Test, to assess your students' language level and skills.

5 Reflective practice

Reflective practice is the process of examining and evaluating your own teaching practice and its impact on your students' learning. It helps you identify your strengths and weaknesses, challenges and opportunities, and areas for improvement and development. You can use various reflective practice methods, such as journals, logs, portfolios, peer observation, or mentoring. You can also use online tools, such as Google Docs, Evernote, or Reflective Teacher Podcast, to document and share your reflections.

6 Professional development

Professional development is the process of updating and enhancing your knowledge and skills as an ESL teacher. It helps you keep up with the latest trends and research in ESL teaching and learning, and adopt new methods and tools to improve your instruction. You can use various professional development resources, such as books, articles, webinars, workshops, courses, or conferences. You can also use online tools, such as Coursera, EdX, or TESOL International Association, to access and enroll in quality professional development programs.