The Three-Dimensional Science Performance Assessments (3DSPA) project began as a TRIG-funded means to organize educators around the state to undertake a process of developing next generation assessments centered around the new Michigan Science Standards (MSS), titled Three-dimensional Science Performance Assessments . As a result, the intra-Michigan Consortium through Wexford Missaukee ISD collaborated with the Central Michigan Science, Mathematics, Technology Center (SMTC) and the Gratiot-Isabella Regional Education Service District. 

 
3DSPA performance tasks take place in a teacher's classroom to compliment performance expectations they are teaching. A performance task is an assessment task with multiple components in which we can measure student understanding in three dimensions. Students are actively engaged in scientific practices to explain a phenomen on embedded in a scenario. Certain science and engineering practices have dimensions and progressions that can only be fully expressed within social context such as: Developing and Using Models, Planning and Carrying Out Investigations, Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions and Engaging in Argument from Evidence. 3DSPA helps bridge the gap between traditional assessments and those not easily assessed using the new Michigan Science Standards.

Currently, 10 tasks can be downloaded via the ZE Folder in Illuminate and can also be found from the following website: http://3dsciassessment.weebly.com/

SMTC continues to collaborate with MDE regarding the development of 3DSPA tasks in relationship to MDE standardized state testing. SMTC collaborations extend throughout the state through networks such as the Michigan Math Science Network and MI Sci PLN. Recently at the MACUL and MSTA conferences, more than 200 educators attended presentations about 3DSPA.

To see the most recent PowerPoint presentation on 3DSPA from the May 5, 2017 TRIG Steering Committee meeting, click here. 

3DSPA Team and contact information:
Darcy McMahon: [email protected]
Matthew Samocki: [email protected]
Jennel Martin-Powell:  [email protected]