What is the main purpose of formative assessment?

The main purpose of formative assessment is to monitor student learning and provide feedback. This type of assessment is conducted throughout the learning process and is designed to inform both educators and students about how well learning objectives are being met. By offering ongoing feedback, formative assessments help identify areas where students may be struggling, allowing for timely interventions and adjustments in instruction that can enhance learning outcomes.

Formative assessments can take many forms, including quizzes, class discussions, observations, and one-on-one conferences. They play a crucial role in the learning process by fostering an interactive environment where students can reflect on their understanding and engage with the material more deeply. This continuous loop of assessment and feedback supports a growth mindset, enabling students to take ownership of their learning and understand where they need to improve.

In contrast, the other options focus on summative assessments, evaluation of teaching effectiveness, or determining student placement, which are not the primary goals of formative assessment. Summative assessments occur at the end of a learning period and are typically used for assigning grades, whereas formative assessments occur during the learning process and are aimed at improving student performance.