FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What is the primary aim of summative assessments?

1. To guide students through a lesson

2. To provide feedback during learning

3. To evaluate learning after instruction

4. To adjust teaching methods on the fly

The correct answer is: To evaluate learning after instruction

The primary aim of summative assessments is to evaluate learning after instruction has taken place. These assessments are typically administered at the end of an instructional period, such as a unit or course, to determine the extent to which students have achieved the learning objectives. Summative assessments often take the form of tests, projects, or final exams that measure knowledge and skills acquired over time. By evaluating student performance after instruction, educators can gather evidence of student understanding and the effectiveness of their teaching. This information is crucial for making decisions about curriculum effectiveness, student progress, and areas that may need additional focus or improvement in future instruction. In contrast, the other options focus on processes that occur during learning or immediate instructional adjustments, which align more closely with formative assessments.