Assessment
High School
Substitute Teaching

Assessment for High School Substitute Teachers

Practical strategies and tips for mastering assessment in high school classrooms as a substitute teacher.

5

Strategies

3

Quick Tips

High School

Grade Level

Why Assessment Matters for High School Subs

Assessment is one of the most important skills for substitute teachers in high school settings. Without the established relationships that regular teachers have, substitutes must rely on strong assessment techniques from the very first minute.

Practical Strategies

1

Follow the teacher's test administration protocols exactly, including timing and calculator policies

2

Use digital formative assessments (Google Forms, Socrative) if the teacher has them set up

3

Provide clear instructions about what is and is not allowed during the assessment

4

Document any irregularities (suspected cheating, technology issues) with specific details

5

Allow students with documented accommodations to receive them even if you are unsure of the specifics

Common Challenges in High School

Students pressuring you to postpone a test because 'the teacher always lets us study more'

Proctoring AP, IB, or other standardized assessments with strict protocols

Smart watches, earbuds, and phones making cheating detection extremely difficult

Quick Tips

Tip:

If students claim the test should be postponed, give the test as planned and note the concern for the teacher

Tip:

Require all phones and smart watches placed face-down on the desk or in backpacks during tests

Tip:

If you suspect cheating, quietly note the students involved — do not confront during the test

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

Master Assessment in the Classroom

Our training courses cover assessment and other essential skills for high school substitute teachers.