How can formative assessment inform reading instruction?

Formative assessment is a critical component of effective reading instruction as it allows educators to gather ongoing feedback about students' learning and understanding. This type of assessment is designed to monitor student progress and provide insights that inform instructional practices. By regularly assessing students throughout the learning process, teachers can identify specific areas where students may struggle and adjust their teaching strategies accordingly. This responsive approach ensures that instruction is tailored to meet the diverse needs of learners, fostering a more supportive and effective learning environment.

The focus of formative assessment is not on assigning final grades, which are more characteristic of summative assessments. Instead, it emphasizes the use of feedback to enhance learning and help students improve their reading skills over time. Additionally, while behavior can play a role in a well-rounded assessment strategy, formative assessments primarily concentrate on academic performance and understanding. Lastly, formative assessment typically favors individual assessment to identify specific areas for growth, rather than prioritizing group testing.