How does formative assessment differ from summative assessment?

Formative assessment is an essential tool in the educational process, characterized by its ongoing nature and its primary purpose of guiding instruction. This type of assessment provides real-time feedback to both teachers and students about the learning process, allowing educators to adjust their teaching strategies based on student needs.

By utilizing formative assessment, educators can identify areas where students may struggle and offer additional support or modify instructional approaches to enhance learning outcomes. This adaptability fosters a more responsive and effective classroom environment, as it emphasizes continuous improvement and development over time.

In contrast, the other options describe aspects that do not accurately represent formative assessment. For instance, formative assessment is not a final evaluation, nor is it primarily intended for grading purposes; it is about feedback and growth. Additionally, formative assessment is not limited to standardized testing, as it can take many forms and occur at various points throughout the learning process.