Step 1: Understand Formative Assessment
Formative assessment is conducted during the teaching process and is used to monitor the progress of students. Unlike summative assessments, which occur at the end of the learning period to evaluate overall learning, formative assessments provide ongoing feedback.
Step 2: Purpose of Formative Assessment
The primary purpose of formative assessment is to diagnose learning problems early on. By identifying which areas students are struggling with, teachers can adjust their teaching methods and provide targeted interventions.
Step 3: Examples of Formative Assessment
Formative assessments can include quizzes, class discussions, peer reviews, observations, and homework assignments. These assessments are not used to assign final grades but to inform instruction.