I believe this is one of the most important standards because students do not enjoy taking test after test in the classroom.  Often times students study the night before a test to cram all of the information, then forget everything as soon as they have taken the test.  This is not true learning.  Students should be able to fully understand everything they are learning and store the information in their long term memory, not short term.  In addition, some students do not take tests well; they may be doing really well in class but get nervous during tests and not score very high.  Teachers must use varied assessments that allow the students more independence in the classroom.  Projects give the students opportunities to express themselves and be creative, but still show the teacher that they understand the material.  Portfolios allow the students and the teacher to see how each student has grown and developed over a period of time.  Changing the way a teacher assesses the students, gives each student the opportunity to shine where their strong points are, so maybe if a student does not take tests very well, they are very creative instead or like to write.

    Standard 3 can be demonstrated multiple different ways in the classroom.  As a high school math teacher, it is very easy to fall back on only giving tests and quizzes; however, I am determined to break this routine.  I will actually grade the homework I assign students to ensure they understand what they are doing.  It is also possible to assign individual and group projects in a math class.  Math projects can make a math class more exciting and hands on, but still involve understanding of the material.  I will always collaborate and communicate with other teachers and parents to get a full understanding of what the students are learning, how they learn best, and what areas I can improve.