MTTC 103 Elementary Practice Exam 2025 - Free Elementary Education Practice Questions and Study Guide

Formative assessments serve a crucial role in the classroom by providing ongoing feedback that informs both students and teachers about the learning progress occurring in real-time. Unlike summative assessments, which are typically administered at the end of a lesson or unit to evaluate what students have learned, formative assessments are designed to be integrated into the instructional process. They can take various forms, such as quizzes, classroom discussions, observations, or reflections, and are often used to gauge understanding, identify learning gaps, and adjust teaching strategies accordingly.

This feedback loop allows teachers to modify their instruction based on students’ needs, supporting a more personalized learning experience. Additionally, students benefit from these assessments as they help them understand their strengths and areas that require improvement, thereby fostering a growth mindset and encouraging proactive learning behaviors.

By focusing on continuous improvement rather than ranking or preparing solely for standardized tests, formative assessments enhance the overall educational experience, making them an essential component of effective teaching and learning.