What is an appropriate use of summative assessments?

Summative assessments are designed to evaluate student learning at the end of an instructional period, such as a unit, course, or semester. This type of assessment measures the knowledge and skills that students have acquired over time, providing a comprehensive overview of their learning outcomes. The primary goal is to summarize the educational achievements of students, so educators can assess not only the effectiveness of their instruction but also the extent to which educational goals have been met.

The focus on evaluating overall student learning after a unit or semester distinguishes summative assessments from other forms of assessment that aim to provide ongoing feedback, such as formative assessments, which occur during the learning process to guide instruction. Summative assessments are typically used for final evaluations, report cards, and overall performance grading, making them essential for understanding the cumulative knowledge students have gained.