What is the primary purpose of a formative assessment during instruction?

The primary purpose of a formative assessment is to improve teaching and learning during the instructional process. Formative assessments are conducted during the learning process, allowing instructors to gather feedback on student understanding and the effectiveness of their teaching strategies. This real-time information enables educators to identify areas where students may be struggling and adjust their instructional methods accordingly.

By focusing on ongoing assessment rather than summative evaluations, formative assessments support a developmental approach to education that emphasizes continuous improvement for both students and teachers. They encourage a supportive learning environment where students can engage with the material and instructors can provide tailored support, ultimately enhancing learning outcomes.

Options that focus on assigning grades, evaluating long-term retention, or comparing performances to standards do not capture the responsive and adaptive nature of formative assessments, which aim specifically to foster development and facilitate immediate learning progress.