Summative vs formative assessment 1

Next, let's contrast summative and formative assessment.

Summative assessment is formal and used to evaluate learning at the conclusion of a defined
instructional period – typically at the end of a unit, term or school year.

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Formative assessment, on the other hand, is conducted by teachers during the learning process in
order to modify teaching and learning activities to improve learner attainment. It's an ongoing cycle
of dialogue, observation and adjustment.
Formative assessment helps us adjust teaching and learning. It tells us what learners can do or
cannot do and can do with some support. It allows us to give individual support to learners as they
are all at different points in the pathway of learning.