FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What type of test should a teacher use to determine if students have mastered instructional objectives at the end of a unit?

1. A formative assessment

2. A standardized test

3. A summative assessment

4. An informal quiz

The correct answer is: A summative assessment

To determine if students have mastered instructional objectives at the end of a unit, a summative assessment is the most appropriate type of test. Summative assessments are specifically designed to evaluate student learning at the conclusion of an instructional period, typically after a unit or course has been completed. They provide a measure of what students have learned across the entire unit and help teachers gauge the effectiveness of their instruction. Summative assessments often take the form of tests, projects, or final exams, and they typically cover all the material that was taught. This allows educators to see how well students have assimilated the information and skills intended to be learned. The results can also guide future instructional decisions and curricular planning by highlighting areas where students may need additional support or where the curriculum may need adjustments.