FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What is the main purpose of summative assessment?

1. To provide continuous feedback throughout instruction

2. To evaluate at the end of a unit to judge knowledge or effectiveness

3. To assess emotional well-being of students

4. To guide curriculum development

The correct answer is: To evaluate at the end of a unit to judge knowledge or effectiveness

The main purpose of summative assessment is to evaluate student learning at the end of an instructional period, such as a unit or course, to determine the level of knowledge and skills acquired. This type of assessment aims to provide a conclusion about what students have learned and how effectively the instructional methods have worked. It often involves formal evaluations such as final exams, projects, or standardized tests. Summative assessments are crucial for measuring educational outcomes and assessing overall performance. They help educators identify whether students have achieved the expected learning objectives and can inform stakeholders about the effectiveness of the educational program. This information is valuable for making decisions about future instruction, curriculum adjustments, and the overall educational process.