Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) Subject Area Practice Test

To effectively assess a student's understanding of the Everglades' drainage and South Florida's development, which task is best?

1. Give a quiz on the topic

2. Write a cause-and-effect essay

3. Participate in a group discussion

4. Create a presentation

The correct answer is: Write a cause-and-effect essay

Opting for a cause-and-effect essay is a highly effective method for assessing a student's understanding of the drainage of the Everglades and the subsequent development of South Florida. This type of task requires students to not only articulate their knowledge of the facts but also to analyze the relationships between different elements involved in this complex topic. Writing an essay encourages critical thinking as students must consider various factors, such as environmental impacts, socioeconomic changes, and historical decisions that contributed to the region's development. Through this process, students demonstrate their ability to synthesize information, articulate coherent arguments, and understand the implications of drainage on the ecosystem and human activities. This depth of analysis is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, thereby providing a more thorough assessment than simpler tasks like quizzes or discussions.