FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What type of assessment evaluates student performance at the end of an instructional period?

1. Formative assessments

2. Summative assessments

3. Diagnostic assessments

4. Placement assessments

The correct answer is: Summative assessments

Summative assessments are designed to evaluate student performance at the conclusion of an instructional period, such as the end of a unit, semester, or course. These assessments provide a comprehensive overview of what students have learned and typically involve measuring the knowledge and skills acquired during the instruction. Common examples include final exams, standardized tests, and major projects or presentations. The primary purpose of summative assessments is to determine whether students have met the learning objectives and to what extent they can apply what they've learned. In contrast, formative assessments are conducted during the instructional process to monitor student learning and provide ongoing feedback to improve teaching and learning in real-time. Diagnostic assessments are used prior to instruction to assess students' existing knowledge and skill levels, which helps teachers identify areas that require focus. Placement assessments are conducted to determine the appropriate level of instruction for a student, ensuring they are placed in the correct class or program. Each type of assessment serves a distinct purpose, but summative assessments specifically aim to summarize learning achievements at the end of a defined period.