Flashlight360 Benchmark FAQs

 

How do I assign the benchmark?

We have this covered for you, so there is no need to worry about assigning the benchmark to your students. Our team will take care of assigning the benchmark on your behalf.

To confirm whether your benchmark has been assigned, select the Benchmarks tab on your Teacher Dashboard. From there, you can view the date windows during which each benchmark is available to students and track student progress for each assigned benchmark.

If you have any questions or something does not look quite right, our Support team is always happy to help.

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How do I administer the benchmark?

While benchmarks are assigned automatically, teachers play an important role in setting students up for a successful experience.

• Before students begin, be sure they are using a supported browser/device and know how to log in to their accounts. When students start the benchmark, the microphone check will appear automatically. Please confirm that each student completes and passes this check before proceeding.
• During the benchmark, allow students time and space to complete the benchmark. While students are working, we recommend monitoring progress from your Teacher Dashboard. Encourage students to listen back to their recordings and check all of their work before submitting. 
  • Note: When taking a benchmark, students can still type as usual, but they will not be able to cut, copy, and paste within the writing portion.
• After the benchmark, encourage students to listen to their feedback and review their scores. Conference or complete data chats with students on their completed work. 

🔦 Helpful Tips for Administering Benchmarks

• Allowing time for a practice assignment before the benchmark can help students feel more comfortable navigating Flashlight360, especially if this is their first time logging in. 

Check out our helpful how to videos with students to introduce Flashlight360. 
(Please note: Teachers must be logged into Flashlight360 in another tab to access these video links.)

• Creating a calm environment and clearly explaining expectations can make a big difference in how confident students feel during the benchmark.
• Encouraging students to listen back to their first recording can help ensure their microphone is working. 
• Reassuring students that help is available during technical issues and that pausing their attempt is an option if needed can support a smoother experience.

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My student can't access their benchmark. What should I check first?

Benchmarks should automatically appear on a student's benchmark, whenever they are enrolled. However, from time to time, some factors can prevent this from happening. If a student cannot see their benchmark, we recommend confirming:

• The student is logging into the correct account. Verify the student name in the top right corner of their dashboard:

  
   

• The benchmark window is still open. The dates for each benchmark window appear in the Benchmarks tab of your Teacher Dashboard. Once a window is closed, the benchmarks will disappear from student view unless the window is reopened. 

  

• The benchmark has not already been completed. Student can find all submitted work in their Backpack. 

  

If everything looks correct and access is still blocked, we’re happy to investigate further. 

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Can I reset a student's benchmark? 

If a student experiences a technical issue during the benchmark, please reach out to your Education Partnership Manager or our Support team at [e-mail] so we can review the benchmark and determine next steps.

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How is a benchmark different from an assignment? 

Benchmarks and assignments serve different purposes. Benchmarks are assigned three times a year and are used to measure student growth over time. They are automatically assigned and help track progress. Assignments are created by teachers and are used for ongoing practice, instruction, and skill development. Unlike benchmarks, assignments are customizable and can be tailored to support student learning and differentiation.

Note: During benchmarks, students can type as usual, but cut, copy, and paste are disabled in the writing section to help preserve the integrity of their work.

Still need help?

If your question is not listed here or something still does not look right, our Support team is here to help. You are welcome to reach out anytime to [e-mail], and we are also happy to schedule a quick Zoom if that is easier.