Many different forms of exhibitions and performances occur in schools as part of good instruction; examples include oral reports, presentations, and recitals. However, for an exhibition to be considered a School-Wide Diploma Assessment under the Rhode Island Diploma System, it must include the elements required by RIDE. These elements are defined in greater detail in section 4.2.3.

These required elements were drawn from exhibition systems in Rhode Island and represent the minimum elements that an exhibition must contain in order to be considered sufficient as a School-Wide Diploma Assessment. Schools and/or districts are free to add additional elements to their exhibition requirements but they may not omit these required elements. As part of their educational experience, students will certainly engage in exhibitions that do not include all of these elements; such experiences are valuable opportunities to learn and practice the skills students will eventually need for their School-Wide Diploma Assessment.

The development of a School-Wide Diploma Assessment takes a great deal of organization and a strong commitment from district and school personnel. Unless a specific group is given clear responsibility and authority for its development, it is highly unlikely that a high quality, rigorous, and valid exhibition system can be established.