Which of the following is an example of a formative assessment?

An observation is an example of formative assessment because it involves the ongoing process of monitoring student progress and understanding during instruction. This type of assessment allows educators to gather real-time data about students’ learning characteristics and behaviors, enabling them to make informed decisions about their teaching strategies and provide immediate feedback.

In the context of formative assessment, observations can be informal and may include watching how students engage with materials, collaborate with peers, or demonstrate their understanding of a concept through practice or participation. This feedback loop helps create a responsive learning environment where adjustments can be made to meet students’ needs.

Other options, while related to assessment, tend to align more closely with summative assessments or specific measures that do not directly inform teaching practices in the moment. For instance, an anticipation guide is a tool used prior to instruction to activate students' prior knowledge or expectations, but it does not involve direct observation of learning in progress. Standardized tests typically assess overall achievement at a particular point in time rather than focusing on the learning process, and a reading inventory is often conducted to assess reading level rather than providing ongoing feedback throughout teaching.