National Board Assessment Center Simulation
I designed this simulation to help candidates with the three pane format of the assessment center. The directions and the scenario are on the top left of the screen. The questions for the prompt are on the right side of the screen. The bottom area is where you do your typing.
A timer is included on the bottom left of the screen to assist with pacing, but nothing will happen after 30 minutes. The user must start the timer manually. (Originally, I was going to set the timer to autostart, but this gives the user more options as to how to use the exercise. Please note that the "real timer"in the Assessment Center counts backwards from 30 minutes.)
Disclaimer: This is a crude representation of the actual Assessment Center. Candidates are encouraged to take the available tutorial at the assessment center and on the National Board Website since the actual interface will be different.
The purpose of this site is to assist candidates in becoming familiar with a timed written test presented in a three pane format, but expect some slight differences in the real test (such as having to push buttons to move back and forth between the prompt questions.)
The prompts below were written by NBCTs using the scoring rubrics and actual classroom examples- they are for practice only and we make no claims that they represent the actual types of questions of the real assessment center.
OK- so now that's out of the way. At the end of the allotted time, copy and paste the directions, prompt, and responses in a word processor so you can save your response.
When you analyze the quality of your response, first ask, "Did I answer all the questions?" It is important to do so since you will loose points for questions unanswered. Budget your time wisely. Then ask, "Did I integrate the professional language (sometimes known as jargonese or educanese) in my response?" It is important to do so, because you want to sound like you know what you're talking about. Then ask, "Did I cite specific examples from the example or scenario?" It is important to do so, since your answers must be appropriate to the conditions given. Then assess your answers for developmental and age appropriateness.
Good luck !
Simulations
Early Childhood Generalist
Literacy(EMC)
Exercise 1: Reading Comprehension
Exercise 2: Oral Language Acquisition Skills for Learners of English Language
Middle Childhood Generalist
Exercise 3: Understanding Science
Science
School Counseling