Error patterning is an assessment technique teachers use to gain insight into students' thinking. It can enable you to see whether a student has missed a question due to a lack of understanding in the concept, or simply a lack of following directions.

We have used error patterning with each assessment we have given as a part of the EdTech Grant, to guage progress of students' abilities, and guide instructional practices.

1. Select a random sample of graded assessments (30-50% of population)
2. Select 2-3 questions from the assessment to analyze
• Questions should be extended response (not multiple choice)
• Questions should be ones that students struggled with
3. Using the Error Pattern Sheet:
   • record students' name at the top
   • record the students' errors by marking the appropriate boxes
     • only record errors that are apparent
     • don't be biased based on prior knowledge of a student
4. Upon completion of the sample, tally the number of errors, and determine those which occur most frequently
5. Discuss, as a team, instructional strategies that will address these errors
6. Agree, as a team, to commit to the strategy for a period of time