Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) Subject Area Practice Test

What measure is typically used to determine student progress in a specific skill area?

1. Portfolio assessment

2. Standardized tests

3. Formative assessment

4. Summative assessment

The correct answer is: Formative assessment

Formative assessment is typically utilized to determine student progress in a specific skill area because it involves ongoing evaluation and feedback throughout the learning process. This type of assessment is designed to monitor student learning in real-time, allowing educators to identify strengths and weaknesses in the students' understanding and skills. It can take various forms, such as quizzes, in-class activities, discussions, and observations, enabling educators to adjust their instruction based on the students' needs. In contrast, portfolio assessments compile a collection of a student's work over time but may not provide immediate insights into specific skill areas. Standardized tests assess student performance against a uniform set of standards, often at a broader level rather than focusing on individual progress in specific skills. Summative assessments evaluate student learning at the end of an instructional unit but do not offer the same ongoing, responsive feedback as formative assessments do. Therefore, the focus on continuous monitoring and adjustment makes formative assessment the most effective measure for determining progress in specific skill areas.