IF-AT Cards
(Immediate Feedback Assessment Technique)
IF-AT cards provide a unique way to administer multiple-choice assessments in the classroom and
provide students with immediate feedback.
IF-AT cards resemble
scratch-off lottery tickets; the
gold areas can be scratched
off with a coin.
Basic details for using the IF-AT cards:
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Cards are available with 10, 25, or 50 questions and with 4 or 5 answer choices per question so
you can choose the best fit for your needs.
For each question, a star is hidden beneath one of the gold squares, indicating a correct answer (a
key is included when you order the cards so instructors make sure they put the right answer in the
right position for each question when they create the quiz/test).
Students consider the question and answer options and scratch off the gold from the option they
believe to be the correct answer.
If they were correct, they see the star and move on to the next question
If they were incorrect, they do not see the star, continue to review the question/answer options
and try other options until they have answered correctly
Why/how might I use IF-AT cards in my course?
To turn a traditional quiz from serving primarily as an assessment into a more informative learning
opportunity for the student.
To provide immediate feedback. By requiring them to address wrong answers immediately students learn
and retain more correct information. Students also know their final score before they leave the room.
To facilitate group discussion of material. By having small groups take the quizzes together, students are
discussing information with each other and coming to a consensus before choosing an answer. Since their
peers rely on them to come to class prepared students may be more likely to do assigned work before
class.
To reduce time spent grading. Students can record their scores at the top of the card so instructors can
simply spot check for accuracy as they see fit. The grading scheme can be defined to meet the needs of
individual courses.
In this example, the grading scheme is:
Correct on 1st try = 4 pts
Correct on 2nd try = 2 pts
Correct on 3rd try = 1 pt
As a reading check. A short individual quiz using these cards at the beginning of class could help hold
students responsible for completing assigned readings/activities before class.
To improve morale. Students generally enjoy this process more than the standard test/quiz format. It is not
uncommon to hear groups of students cheering together when they get a correct answer or offering
supportive comments to each other following an incorrect answer.
To assess weak spots. By listening to conversations in the group quiz setting instructors can get a very
accurate sense of key concepts or ideas that students are not understanding, terminology that should be
addressed through a follow-up lecture, etc.
Where do I get the IF-AT cards?
The cards, and more information about how and why you may want to use them, are available through
Epstein Educational Enterprises: http://www.epsteineducation.com/home/Default.aspx