An assessment is the determinant factor of successful learning. Ideally, an assessment is not only conducted at the end of learning. Therefore, there is a need for an authentic assessment. In learning the Indonesian language, there are still many teachers who have not been able to carry out an authentic assessment. Thus, there is a need for an authentic assessment model in learning the Indonesian language. The first step in developing the assessment model was by interviewing the Indonesian language teachers. The interview results were then analyzed to consider and develop the authentic assessment model prototype in learning the Indonesian language. Based on the teacher interview results, many teachers were found to have not promoted an authentic assessment in their Indonesian language learning. Although the teachers have long years of service, it does not mean the teachers understand and promote the authentic assessment appropriately. Therefore, there is a need for an authentic assessment model in learning the Indonesian language.

Assessment problems are still a major problem in the implementation of the 2013 curriculum even though they have been implemented for years. Based on several studies it is known that most teachers cannot design, develop instruments, implement, manage, report, utilize the results properly. The main difficulties experienced by teachers are formulating indicators, organizing instrument items, and making assessment instruments. Thus it is deemed necessary to develop an easy and applicable assessment instrument to help teachers make authentic assessments in learning Indonesian. The first step that must be done is to analyze the needs of teacher and student teachers. Preliminary surveys show that teachers and students need transparent and accountable assessment instrument models. The model can be used as a teacher's reference in conducting assessments. This model is expected to improve the competence of the 21st century: to think critically and solve problems, collaborate and communicate, and to enhance creativity. The characteristics of the model are concluded from the needs analysis carried out through survey, interview, and observation.