How do formative assessments differ from summative assessments?

How do formative assessments differ from summative assessments?

• A. Formative assessments occur at the end of a unit
• B. Summative assessments provide ongoing feedback
• C. Formative assessments are ongoing and monitor progress
• D. Summative assessments are conducted weekly

Answer: (C)

Formative assessments are designed to be ongoing evaluations that monitor student progress throughout the learning process. These assessments are typically administered during a unit or lesson, allowing teachers to gauge understanding, adjust instruction, and provide feedback to students in real time. The emphasis is on enhancing learning and ensuring that students can grasp concepts before moving forward.

In contrast, summative assessments are usually conducted at the end of a unit or course. They aim to evaluate student learning following the completion of instructional activities, often culminating in a final project, exam, or standardized test. By recognizing the fundamental difference in purpose and timing, it becomes clear why formative assessments focus on continuous improvement and support, while summative assessments measure overall achievement and accountability.