FTCE Physical Education K-12 Practice Test

Which type of assessment is categorized as a formal assessment?

1. Observational performance descriptions

2. Skills checklists

3. Written tests and performance records

4. Rating scales

The correct answer is: Written tests and performance records

Formal assessments are structured and standardized methods of evaluating student learning and performance. They often include established criteria, guidelines, and scoring systems that provide a clear framework for measuring knowledge, skills, and competencies. In this context, written tests and performance records represent a formal assessment because they are typically designed with specific learning objectives in mind and are administered in a consistent manner. They often follow a set format, include specific questions or tasks, and allow for objective scoring based on predetermined criteria. This structure ensures that all students are assessed using the same standards, making the results more reliable and comparable across different individuals or groups. Conversely, other assessment types, such as observational performance descriptions, skills checklists, and rating scales, may not adopt the same level of standardization and objectivity that written tests do. While these methods can provide valuable insights into student performance and development, they often rely more on subjective judgment and vary in administration, making them less formal in nature.