Paula, depending on how students are able to pass/fail such a course, another technique that can be used is to introduce such assessments as learning activities and skill growth activities. A score of 45 out of 100 shows the student they have 55% more of the skills to master which is a good thing and it allows them to focus on the skills they have yet to acquire. Such language gets rid of the word "test" or "quiz" or "exam" which by themselves tend to make students more nervous.
James Jackson
