What distinguishes formative assessments from summative assessments?

The correct choice highlights that formative assessments are conducted continuously and are integral in guiding instruction throughout the learning process. These assessments are designed to provide ongoing feedback to both educators and students, allowing for adjustments in teaching methods and learning strategies in real time. For example, a teacher might use quizzes, observations, or discussions throughout the unit to gauge student understanding and make pedagogical decisions accordingly.

On the other hand, summative assessments are typically administered at the end of an instructional period, such as a unit or academic year, to evaluate what students have learned overall. These assessments often contribute to final grades and are used to determine whether learning objectives have been met. By contrasting formative assessments’ focus on ongoing development with the final evaluation nature of summative assessments, it becomes clear how these two types of assessment serve distinct but complementary purposes in the education process.