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Mark My Words

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What is a yes or no skill and how do you create one?

A yes/no skill serves as a straightforward method for assessing whether a specific element is present in a student's work: the student is either demonstrating the skill, or they are not. 

Yes/no skills can be particularly beneficial for quick evaluations or formative assessments. If you're wondering how to utilise this feature, follow the steps detailed below:

Step 1: Add a skill

You can create a skill by clicking on the ‘Add a Skill’ option, which is found at the bottom of the skill list. It is highlighted in light blue text and circled in light blue. This action will generate a new skill. Alternatively, you can edit a pre-existing skill from the list.

Step 2: Write out the skill

In the text box, write out the skill you want to assess. You can phrase it as a question (e.g., "Has the student...") or as a statement (e.g., "They can..."). The way you phrase the skill here will appear on the assessment form, so it's important to phrase it in a way that suits your task.

Step 3: Convert to yes/no format

On the top right corner of the selected skill, you will see the option to select between yes/no and multiple choice. Click on yes/no – or the small circle beside it – to select this skill type.

Step 4: Expand the skill details

Click on the arrow button on the right side of the skill box. This will expand the skill, allowing you to see all of the information within it.

Step 5: Write the medal and mission

After switching to the yes/no format, write down the medal and mission. The medal is a positive statement that acknowledges a student's successful achievement of a skill. The mission provides guidance on how the student can improve and reach the next level of achievement. Note: an explanation and example of the skill can also be included at this point, though this is optional.

Step 6: Adjust scoring

You have the option to modify the value of the ‘yes’ skill level. For a deeper understanding of how to adjust these values, refer to the user guide on assigning scores to skills. Remember, if a student fails to demonstrate the selected skill (i.e. they receive a ‘no’), they will receive a score of “0”.

Step 7: Delete unwanted skills

If you decide that a yes/no skill is not appropriate, you can easily remove it. To do this, expand the skill you wish to delete and click on the delete button located at the bottom of the skill.