Formative vs. Summative Assessment: Understanding the Difference and When to Use Each

greenedugroup
Aug 7
2 min read

Assessment is at the heart of effective teaching and learning—but not all assessments serve the same purpose. To evaluate student progress, guide instruction, and measure learning outcomes, educators typically rely on two core types of assessment: formative and summative.

Although they share a common goal—supporting student achievement—they differ significantly in timing, purpose, and impact. This blog unpacks the key differences and helps you decide when to use each for maximum educational impact.

What Is Formative Assessment?

Formative assessment is used during the learning process to monitor student understanding, provide feedback, and guide instruction. It’s like a GPS for learning—showing both the teacher and the student where they are and where they need to go.

Examples:

Quizzes and polls
Class discussions
Exit tickets
Draft submissions
Peer feedback
Observation checklists

Purpose:

Diagnose gaps in knowledge
Adapt teaching in real-time
Encourage student self-reflection
Support continuous improvement

When to Use It:

During lessons or units
Early stages of a task or project
Before introducing new concepts

What Is Summative Assessment?

Summative assessment is conducted at the end of a learning period to evaluate what students have learned. It’s often high-stakes and used for reporting, certification, or grading.

Examples:

Final exams
End-of-unit tests
Projects or portfolios
Standardised assessments
Practical demonstrations or performance tasks

Purpose:

Measure mastery of learning outcomes
Assign grades or determine competency
Evaluate program or course effectiveness

When to Use It:

After instruction is complete
At the end of a unit, term, or course
When a formal judgment of learning is required

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature Formative Assessment Summative Assessment

Timing Ongoing, during learning End of instruction

Purpose Guide learning, adjust teaching Evaluate learning outcomes

Feedback Immediate, low-stakes Final, often high-stakes

Use in Reporting Rarely used for grades Often contributes to final grade

Examples Quizzes, drafts, feedback Exams, final projects, performances

When Should You Use Each?

The best teaching strategies don’t rely on just one type of assessment. Instead, effective educators blend formative and summative methods to get a full picture of student learning.

Use Formative Assessments:

To check understanding in real-time
To help students improve before final evaluations
To personalise instruction
In classrooms where feedback and iteration are part of the learning process

Use Summative Assessments:

To determine final competency or achievement
To meet reporting requirements (e.g., grades, certifications)
At the conclusion of a structured learning period
When formal, validated assessment evidence is needed

Final Thoughts: Balance Is Key

Formative and summative assessments work best together. Formative assessments support learning as it happens, while summative assessments certify what has been learned. When used effectively, they create a feedback-rich environment that not only measures performance but actively enhances it.

Whether you’re teaching in a classroom, delivering vocational training, or designing digital courses, understanding the role of each type of assessment is critical to creating a well-rounded and responsive learning experience.