What distinguishes formative assessment from summative assessment?

Formative assessment is characterized by its purpose of providing ongoing feedback that helps both teachers and students improve the learning process. This type of assessment is conducted during the instructional process and is designed to monitor student learning in real-time. It allows educators to identify areas where students may be struggling and adjust their teaching strategies accordingly, fostering an adaptive learning environment. The emphasis is on using assessment as a tool for enhancing understanding and facilitating student growth, rather than merely measuring achievement.

In contrast, the other statements highlight aspects that do not accurately define formative assessment. For instance, formative assessments are generally conducted throughout a unit rather than exclusively at its conclusion, which is a hallmark of summative assessments. The focus of summative assessments is typically on evaluating and documenting what students have learned after instruction has finished, rather than providing ongoing feedback. Additionally, summative assessments cater to a broader audience beyond just teachers; they often serve purposes such as accountability for schools and informing stakeholders about overall student performance.