FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What is the primary goal of formative assessments in the classroom?

1. To compare students against standardized benchmarks

2. To measure overall student achievement

3. To improve teaching and learning

4. To assign final grades

The correct answer is: To improve teaching and learning

The primary goal of formative assessments in the classroom is to improve teaching and learning. Formative assessments are designed to provide ongoing feedback to both teachers and students throughout the learning process. This feedback allows educators to identify areas where students may be struggling or excelling and adjust their instructional strategies accordingly. By focusing on the development of students rather than simply measuring their final accomplishments, formative assessments enable teachers to tailor their lessons in real-time, providing the necessary support and resources for students to enhance their understanding and skills. This collaborative approach fosters a growth mindset, encouraging students to engage actively with the learning material and reflect on their own progress. In contrast, other options focus on summative aspects such as comparing students to standardized benchmarks, measuring overall achievement, or assigning final grades, which are not the purposes of formative assessments. Instead, these assessments prioritize the learning journey, ensuring that both students and instructors can continuously improve.