Although I have run across a handful of Bible classes for children and teens around the world who actually give tests to assess student learning in church Bible classes, it is not the norm. In fact, it is entirely possible that giving formal tests without a strong supportive argument would repel, rather than attract young students and their families. Yet when students aren’t assessed, how can a ministry know if its classes are accomplishing anything at all?
There is a less formal assessment, that when presented properly, can give you the information you need in a way students enjoy. Give each student a large sheet of white paper and pencils, pens, markers and other art supplies. Tell them you want them to put everything they know on the paper about whatever Bible topic, person or event you give them. Try not to make the assignment so narrow that there isn’t much to share or so broad that students feel overwhelmed.
Tell students you will give awards for the most facts, most accurate, most facts no one else mentions (that are accurate), most artistic,etc. Just remember to either have enough categories so everyone gets something or just a handful, so most don’t get something. A certificate is fine for the first time. If you have competitive students, you may have to adapt the awards in subsequent sessions – or do away with them entirely.
After students finish, have them put their names on their papers and turn them in to you. You can return them all at the next class. In the meantime, you will have time to figure out who is and isn’t learning in your class. You can use this information to improve your Bible classes and their outcomes. Have fun with it, but make sure your Bible classes are as effective as possible.