Chemistry: Card Sorts

I test regularly; I assess all the time!  What’s the difference?  A test or quiz can be recorded and saved.  Assessment can be informal.  I want to gauge understanding.  This past year, we reviewed the names of the bones, muscles, and lobes regularly.  I was assessing whether or not the kiddos still knew the names.  One tool I use for assessment is a card sort.  A card sort is different from a Concept Map, which helps me see if a student understands both the terms and the relationships among the terms or concepts.

Card sorts are quick.  For example, right after a lesson, you can do a card sort.  The first time or two I do a sort as a group, especially with younger kiddos.  Go over the answers together.  If there are many mistakes, there is still confusion about the topic.  You can stop and address the problem immediately.  I see assessment as part of instruction. Below are card sorts with lesson material.

Solids Liquids and Gases is designed for younger kiddos.  Another good source are the Scientific Classification three-part, Montessori cards. Here is the basic why and how of three-part cards.

Physical or Chemical Properties: BiteSize Lesson and Physical and Chemical Properties Card Sort

Physical or Chemical Change: BiteSize Lesson  and Card Sort

Classify Chemical Equations: Types of Chemical Reactions lesson, Card Sort (no answer key), Card Sort 2 (Slide Deck with answer key)

Acid-Bases: Video and Card Sort using a Venn Diagram.

Gas Laws: Use the paper card sort (or just use the electronic gif) with Card Sort Hacks.  Keep the original card sort copy as an answer key.  Cut up the paper copy to use as a card sort.

It’s annoying to see that even card sorts are sold on TPT or Etsy.  Come on!