Formative assessment is primarily used for what purpose?

Formative assessment is primarily focused on providing ongoing information about student knowledge and understanding throughout the learning process. Its key purpose is to gather data that can inform both teachers and students about the students' current level of understanding, skills, and areas that may need improvement. This feedback allows for instructional adjustments to be made in real-time, enabling educators to tailor their teaching strategies to better meet the needs of their students.

Through methods such as quizzes, discussions, and observations, formative assessments help identify strengths and weaknesses, guiding further instruction and supporting student learning. Unlike summative assessments, which evaluate student learning at the end of an instructional period and often contribute to final grades, formative assessments are intended to enhance learning and are more about growth and development rather than final outcomes.