This self-paced online workshop introduces teachers to Transfer Tasks—performance assessments designed to measure how well students can apply their scientific understanding to new, unfamiliar situations. Unlike traditional tests that focus on recall, Transfer Tasks reveal the depth of students’ reasoning, their ability to construct explanations, and their capacity to use the three dimensions of modern science learning in authentic ways.
Educators will leave with a clear understanding of how Transfer Tasks strengthen instruction and provide a more accurate picture of what students truly know and can do.
Understand what Transfer Tasks are and why they matter
The workshop explains how Transfer Tasks function as performance-based assessments built around a coherent storyline. You’ll learn how these tasks center on a single phenomenon or problem and require students to demonstrate understanding across multiple steps, making their reasoning visible.
See how Transfer Tasks differ from traditional assessments
Teachers will examine how Transfer Tasks create:
- A coherent sequence of prompts that build toward a deeper explanation
- Open-ended questions that reveal student thinking, not just final answers
- Holistic, three-dimensional rubrics that evaluate performance across practices, core ideas, and crosscutting concepts
This section helps educators recognize why these assessments provide richer, more equitable insights into student learning.
Learn how to implement Transfer Tasks effectively
The course walks through practical components needed for classroom use, including:
- Task formats that support three-dimensional reasoning
- Student guides that scaffold engagement
- Teacher guides that support facilitation and scoring
- Examples to help teachers understand what proficient performance looks like
You’ll see how Transfer Tasks fit into a broader instructional system that values sense-making, explanation, and evidence-based reasoning.
Educators leave with:
- A clear framework for assessing student understanding in authentic ways
- Tools for designing or selecting high-quality performance assessments
- Strategies for using Transfer Task results to inform instruction
- Increased confidence in facilitating and scoring three-dimensional assessments
- Insight into how Transfer Tasks reinforce equity by valuing reasoning over recall
This workshop helps teachers strengthen the alignment between instruction and assessment and supports students in demonstrating scientific thinking that mirrors real-world practice.
Self-paced online course
- Total time: Approximately 1.5–2.5 hours, depending on exploration and reflection
- Includes videos, sample tasks, rubrics, and classroom support tools
- Flexible structure for individual learning or PLC study
- Can be completed in one session or spread across multiple days
- Science teachers implementing three-dimensional instruction
- Educators seeking alternatives to traditional tests
- Teachers interested in performance assessment
- Instructional coaches or curriculum leads designing assessment systems
- Anyone wanting to better understand how students apply scientific ideas to new contexts