Assessment involves gathering educationally relevant data to determine an educational plan. The assessment process includes screening, determining eligibility, planning programs, monitoring progress, and evaluating programs. Sources of information include observation, interviews, and tests. The teacher's role is to qualify, observe objectively and systematically in a natural and comfortable setting, avoiding making diagnoses, using labels, raising parent anxiety, or telling parents what to do. Components of an IEP include the child's present level of development, measurable annual goals and short-term objectives, special education and related services, participation in regular education, and evaluation criteria.