In which assessment type do teachers utilize informal questions to gauge understanding during a lesson?

Formative assessment is focused on gathering feedback during the learning process rather than at the end of an instructional unit. Teachers employ this type of assessment to monitor student understanding and adjust their teaching strategies accordingly. Informal questions, such as quick checks for understanding or discussions during a lesson, allow educators to assess grasp of the material in real-time. This ongoing evaluation helps to identify areas that may need more clarification or review, ultimately supporting student learning throughout the instructional period.

In contrast, diagnostic assessment is typically used at the beginning of a course to evaluate students’ prior knowledge and skills, summative assessment occurs at the end of a lesson, unit, or course to evaluate what students have learned, and performance assessment involves students demonstrating their knowledge and skills through practical tasks, rather than through questioning. Formative assessment, therefore, captures the dynamic nature of teaching and learning, making it pivotal for effective instructional practices.